c
c 1. Symbol and abbreviation of centi-. 2. Symbol for calo-
rie.
c Symbolfor speed of light in a vacuum.
C 1. Symbol for coulomb. 2. Symbol for Calorie. 3. Symbol
for capacitance. 4. Symbol for capacitor. S. Symbol for
carbon. 6. Symbol for collector. 7. A high-level computer
programming language which is highly flexible and mostly
machine-independent because of its closeness to assembly
language. Also called C programming language.
c- Abbreviation of centi-.
C band 1. In communications, a band of radio frequencies
extending from 4.00 to 8.00 GHz, as established by the
IEEE. This corresponds to wavelengths of 7.5 to 3.75 em,
respectively. 2. In communications, a band of frequencies
extending from about 4 GHz to about 6 GHz, although the
defined interval varies.
C battery A battery which supplies the bias voltage to the
control grid of an electron tube. Also called grid battery.
C bias In an electron tube, a steady DC voltage applied to the
control grid, to establish a reference level for its operation.
Also called grid bias.
C display In radars, an oscilloscopic display which plots the
bearing of the scanned object in the horizontal plane versus
its angles of elevation, which appear in the vertical plane.
The scanned object appears as a blip on the display. Also
called C scope, C scanner, C scan, or C indicator.
C indicator Same as C display.
C meter Abbreviationof capacitance meter.
C network An electric network formed by three impedance
branches in series, with the free leads connected to one pair
of terminals, and the junction points being connected to an-
other pair of terminals,
C programming language Same as C (7).
C scan Same as C display.
C scanner Same as C display.
C scope Same as C display.
C signal Abbreviation of chrominance signal.
C++ An object-orientedversion of C (7).
CA t. Abbreviation of cellular automata. 2. Abbreviation of
certificate authority.
Ca Chemicalsymbol for calcium.
cabinet An enclosure within which an apparatus, such as a
TV, computer, or speaker, may be housed. The composition
of such an enclosure will vary, depending on the specific
needs of what is being enclosed, and where it will be used.
cable 1. One or more electric conductors bundled togetherand
encased by a protective sheath. The contained conductors
are insulated from each other. Also called wire (3). 2. One
or more optical fibers bundled together and encased by a
protective sheath. Generally used for telecommunications.
Such cables usually consist of three layers, which are the
core, its surrounding cladding, and the protective jacket.
Also called fiber-optic cable, optical cable, or light cable.
3. Same as coaxial cable. 4. Same as cable TV.
cable armor A covering that protects or reinforces a cable. It
is composed of one or more layers, which mayor may not
be of the same material. For example, a polymer-coated
steel armor should protect fiber-optic cables under most
conditions.
cable assembly A cable which is fitted with the appropriate
connectors,and which is ready for installation.
cable attenuation Same as cable loss.
cable box Also called cable converter box, or converter
box. 1. A box, that connects to a TV, which decodes the in-
coming cable signal or otherwise enables viewing of certain
channels or programming. Such a device may also connect
to another device such as a VCR. Also called converter (6).
2. A box which serves to tune a TV to an available channels.
Also called converter (7).
cable capacitance Capacitance between the conductors of a
cable. Usually measured in picofarads.
cable category One of seven categories of cables used in
communications. They are denominated category I cable
through category 7 cable, based on their capacity.
cable clamp A mechanical device which gives a cable me-
chanical support, provides strain relief, and absorbs vibra-
tions that would otherwise reach it.
cable connector A fixture which attaches to either end of a
cable, enabling appropriate connections between devices.
An example is a DIN connector.
cable converter box Same as cable box.
cable delay The time a signal is delayed as it passes through a
cable. This time will vary depending on factors such as the
composition of the cable.
cable duct A pipe, tube, or channel through which cables are
run.
cable harness A bundle of cables which is tied or otherwise
attached together so as to be handled, installed, or removed
as a unit.
cable head end Same as cable headend.
cable headend In a TV system, such as satellite TV or cable
TV, the location at which signals are received, then proc-
essed, and from which they are distributed to the individual
subscribers. Also spelled cable head end. Also called ca-
ble TV headend, or headend (t).
cable Internet Internet service provided through a cable TV
system. Such a service may plug into a cable modem, or
into the TV, utilizing a specially-equipped cable box.
Transmission speeds can be up to several Mbps down-
stream, so it is considered to be broadband. Also called ca-
ble-modem Internet, or Internet cable.
cable jacket A protective outer covering for a cable. Depend-
ing on the intended use for the cable and the operational en-
vironment, it may protect against moisture, abrasion, mag-
netic fields, radiation, and so on. Some cables have more
than one jacket. Also called cable sheath.
cable joint Same as cable splice.
cable loss The reduction of the intensity of a signal traveling
through a cable. It usually refers to a coaxial cable, and de-
pends on variables such as the frequency of the signal and
cable length. In the case of a coaxial cable, higher frequen-
cies have greater loss than lower frequencies. Also called
cable attenuation.
cable matcher A device which enables a cable connector to
be joined with the same gender of cable connector. For in-
stance, the connection of two phono plugs, as opposed to a
phono plug being plugged into a phono jack. Also called
gender changer.
cable modem A modem used to connect to cable Internet.
cable-modem Internet Same as cable Internet.
cable raceway A channel through which cables or wires are
run, and which serves to protect them between locations
where they are connected to devices and equipment. Also
called raceway.
cable router 89
cable router A router, located at a cable headend, which
manages the Internet traffic among the served cable-modem
subscribers.
cable run 1. The length a cable runs from one terminal to
another. 2. The route a cable runs from one terminal to an-
other.
cable sheath Same as cable jacket.
cable splice The electrical connection between two sections of
cable. Connectors mayor may not be used to accomplish
this. Also called cable joint.
cable telephony Telecommunications services through cable
TV connections. Such connections are usually via coaxial
cable, and the available services may include telephone, ca-
ble-modem Internet, and digital cable.
cable television Same as cable TV.
cable television headend Same as cable headend.
cable tray A speciaJly designed channel through which cables
and wires are run. A cable tray provides mechanical sup-
port, and protection which is tailored to specific needs.
Such protection may include jackets and/or shields which
safeguard against flames, high electrical noise, vibrations,
crushing, and so on. Also called wireway.
cable TV Abbreviation of cable television. A TV broadcast-
ing system in which signals from local and distant stations
are received by one or more antennas, and relayed to the in-
dividual subscribers within the community served. The re-
ceiving antennas are usually advantageously located, and a
coaxial cable is the customary means to convey the signals
sent to the subscribers. Its own abbreviation is CATV.
Also cal1ed cable (4), or community-antenna TV.
cable TV headend Same as cable headend.
cabling t. One or more connections using one or more cables.
For example, the cable connections within an optical fiber
communications network, or those of a power grid. 2. The
physical cables used in cabling (1).
cabling diagram A plan which shows the paths of cabling
(1).
CAC Abbreviation of carrier access code.
cache Also called cache memory, or memory cache. J. In
computer memory management, a specialized high-speed
storage subsystem. Cache works by storing recently and/or
frequently accessed information, where it can be accessed
much faster than from where it was obtained. A level I
cache is built right into the CPU, while a level 2 cache util-
izes a memory bank between the CPU and main memory.
Level 1 cache is faster, but smaller than level 2 cache, while
level 2 cache is still faster than main memory. Disk cache
uses a section of main memory to store recently accessed
data from a disk, and can dramatically speed up applications
by avoiding the much slower disk accesses. Also called
CPU cache. 2. An area of computer storage where the most
recently downloaded Web pages may be temporarily placed,
so that when one of these pages is returned to, it loads faster.
Also called browser cache, Web cache, or Internet cache.
cache card An expansion card that increases the cache (1) of
a computer.
cache coherency The synchronization of data contained in
multiple caches. In this manner, the data accessed from any
given cache is the most recently written. Used, for instance,
in parallel processors.
cache-coherent non-uniform memory access A parallel-
processing computer architecture in which the total available
memory is divided into multiple shared segments, and in
which there is cache coherency. Its abbreviation is
ccNUMA.
cache hit A successful retrieval of data from a cache, instead
of main memory or a disk. Also called hit (1).
cadmium selenide
cache hit rate The proportion of data accesses that are ful-
filled by a cache, instead of main memory or a disk. It is the
primary way to measure the effectiveness of a cache. Also
called hit rate (1).
cache memory Same as cache (1).
cache miss A retrieval of data from main memory or a disk,
as opposed to a cache.
cache miss rate The proportion of data accesses that are not
fulfilled by a cache.
cache server A server, such as a proxy server, which caches
Web pages and other material downloaded from the Internet.
If a page request can be satisfied by a cache server, the re-
sponse time is faster, and bandwidth is economized. Press-
ing the browser's refresh icon usually accesses the specific
location where the desired Internet resource is located. Also
called Web cache server.
cached DRAM Same as CORAM.
caching controller A controller, such as a disk controller,
which has its own memory cache.
CAD 1. Acronym for computer-aided design, or computer-
assisted design. 2. Acronym for computer-aided diagno-
sis, or computer-assisted diagnosis.
CAD/CAM Acronym for computer-aided design/computer-
aided manufacturing.
CADD Acronym for computer-aided design and drafting.
caddy 1. Same as CD caddy. 2. Same as CD-ROM caddy.
cadmium A silvery-white ductile and malleable metal with a
bluish tinge, whose atomic number is 48. It has over 30
known isotopes, of which several are stable. It has many
applications in electronics, including its use in electroplat-
ing, fire-protection systems, phosphors, rectifiers, and in
batteries, such as those consisting of nickel cadmium cells.
Its chemical symbol is Cd.
cadmium acetate Colorless crystals used in electroplating.
cadmium cell A standard cell used as a reference voltage
source, in which the positive electrode is mercury, the nega-
tive electrode is an amalgam of cadmium and mercury, and
the electrolyte is a solution of cadmium sulfate. It has a
voltage of approximately 1.0186 at 20C. Also called Wes-
ton standard cell.
cadmium chloride White crystals whose chemical formula is
CdCIz. It is used in vacuum tubes and in electroplating.
cadmium coating Same as cadmium plating.
cadmium cyanide Clear crystals whose chemical formula is
Cd(CN)z. It is used in electroplating.
cadmium fluoride Crystals whose chemical formula is CdF2
It is used in phosphors and lasers.
cadmium hydroxide A white powder whose chemical for-
mula is Cd(OH)z. It is used in storage-battery electrodes
and in electroplating.
cadmium iodide A white powder whose chemical formula is
Cdls, It is used in phosphors, photoconductors, and in elec-
troplating.
cadmium oxide A colorless powder or brown to red crystals
whose chemical formula is CdO. It is used in semiconduc-
tors, phosphors, electroplating, and rechargeable-battery
electrodes.
cadmium plating The electrolytic deposition of cadmium
onto a substrate, usually to provide it with greater resistance
to oxidation and corrosion. Also called cadmium coating.
cadmium propionate A chemical compound used in scintilla-
tion counters.
cadmium selenide A red powder whose chemical formula is
CdSe. It is used in semiconductors, photoconductors, phos-
phors, and rectifiers.
cadmium sulfate
cadmium sulfate Colorless crystals whose chemical formula
is CdS04 It is used in solution as the electrolyte in a Wes-
ton standardcell, in electroplating,and in phosphors.
cadmium sulfide A yellow or brown powder whose chemical
formula is CdS. It is used in semiconductors, photoconduc-
tors, phosphors,and rectifiers.
cadmium telluride Brown to black crystals whose chemical
formula is CdTe. It is used in semiconductors, X-ray
screens, and phosphors.
cadmium tungstate White or yellow crystals or powder
whose chemical formula is CdW04 It is used in semicon-
ductors, photoconductors, phosphors, and rectifiers
CADS Acronym for computer-aided dispatch system.
CAE 1. Abbreviation of computer-aided engineering.
2. Abbreviation of computer-aided education, or com-
puter-assisted education.
cage antenna A broadband dipole antenna which consists of a
number of wires connected in parallel, and arranged in a
manner that resembles a cylindrical cage. Such an antenna
is usuallycenter-fed.
CAl Abbreviation of computer-aided instruction, com-
puter-assisted instruction, computer-aided education,
computer-aided learning, computer-aided teaching,
computer-assisted learning, or computer-assisted teach-
ing.
cal Abbreviation of calorie.
Cal Abbreviation of Calorie.
CAL Abbreviation of computer-aided learning, or com-
puter-assisted learning.
calcite A crystalline compound whose chemical formula is
CaC03 Used in optical instruments,and as a phosphor.
calcium A silvery-white metal whose atomic number is 20. It
has about 20 known isotopes, of which 6 are stable. It is the
most abundant metallic element in the human body, and the
fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust. It is used to
prepare various alloys, and as a getter in vacuum tubes. Its
chemical symbol is Ca.
calcium chromate A bright yellow powder whose chemical
formula is CaCr04. It is used as a battery depolarizer.
calcium fluoride A white powder whose chemical formula is
CaFl. It is used in spectroscopyand lasers.
calcium molybdate A white crystalline powder whose
chemical formula is CaMo04 It is used in phosphors.
calcium plumbate An orange to brownish powder whose
chemical formula is Ca l Pb0 4 It is used in storage batter-
ies.
calcium pyrophosphate A white powder whose chemical
formula is CaPlO,. It is used in phosphors.
calcium sulfide A yellow-gray powder whose chemical for-
mula is CaS. It is used in phosphors.
calcium titanate A chemical compound whose formula is
CaTi03 . It is used in ceramic capacitors.
calcium tungstate White crystals whose chemical formula is
CaW04 It is used in X-ray devices and in lasers.
calculating machine Same as calculator.
calculator A device which performs arithmetic operations. It
can only accept numerical input, which is keyed in, and dis-
plays and/or prints its results. Almost all calculators can
store numbers in memory, many provide additional func-
tions such as logarithms and square-root calculations, and
some are programmable. The term usually refers to hand-
held or portable devices, but these can be encountered else-
where, for instance, as a virtual calculator on a computer
screen. Also called calculating machine.
calendar display A display, such as that of a DVD or CD, in
which all track numbers, up to a given maximum, are dis-
90 call forwarding
played at once, in a format similar to a common desk calen-
dar.
calibrate To check indicated and/or measured values and
make adjustments comparing with a known standard. Such
a procedure may be used to make sure that the readings, set-
tings, or values of an instrument, component, or device are
correct.
calibrated Having gone through a calibration (1) process, to
ensure high accuracy.
calibrated device A device which has been calibrated.
calibrated frequency An output frequency which has been
calibrated.
calibrated instrument An instrument which has been cali-
brated.
calibrated measurement A measurement which has been
calibrated.
calibrated meter A meter which has been calibrated.
calibrated reading A reading which has been made with a
calibrated instrument.
calibrated scale A scale which has been calibrated.
calibrated signal An output signal which has been cali-
brated.
calibration 1. The process of checking indicated and/or
measured values and making adjustments while comparing
with a known standard. Such a procedure may be used to
make sure that the readings, settings, or values of an instru-
ment, component, or device are correct. 2. The gradations
of a scale, such as that of a thermometer that reads to tenths
of degrees.
calibration accuracy The level of accuracy achieved through
calibration (1).
calibration curve A graph depicting the relationship between
the indicated or measured values of an instrument or device,
versus the correct values.
calibration marker On a CRT screen, especially that of a
radar, electronically generated marks that indicate a numeri-
cal scale of any given parameters, such as bearing, time, or
range.
calibration standard A standard utilized for calibration (l).
calibrator A device used for calibration (1).
californium A synthetic radioactive metallic chemical ele-
ment whose atomic number is 98. It has about 20 known
isotopes, all of which are unstable. Its applications include
its use as a source of neutrons. Its chemical symbol is Cf.
call 1. In computer programming, a statement or instruction
which invokes a subroutine or another program. Control of
the program is temporarily transferred during this call, and
subsequently returned after the subroutine or other program
completes its task. 2. In communications, the establishing of
a connection between stations. 3. In communications, the
sending of a signal indicating the desire to establish a con-
nection with another station. 4. In communications, the op-
erations necessary to establish, maintain, and conclude a
connection.
call attempt In communications, an attempt to establish a
connection between stations, whether it is successful or not.
call barring A service offered by telephone companies, which
enables a user to restrict outgoing and/or incoming calls.
Used, for instance, to preclude the making of certain interna-
tional calls, or to prevent incoming calls when roaming.
call duration A time interval starting the instant both ends of
a call are off-hook, and ending when one end terminates the
call.
call forwarding A service offered by telephone companies,
which enables calls to automatically be rerouted from one
telephone line to another. Calls may be sent to an alternate
location, an answering service, or the like. Some systems
call hour
have more tailored offerings, such as selective call forward-
ing for programmed numbers, call forwarding only when the
line is busy, or forwarding if there is no answer after a speci-
fied number of rings. Also known as forwarding (2).
call hour A unit, used for measuring telephone communica- calorescence The production of visible light through heating
tions traffic, which equals 3600 call seconds, 36 centum call
seconds, or one erlang.
call instruction An instruction to invoke call (1 ).
call letters Same as call sign.
call return A service offered by telephone companies and/or
phones equipped with this feature, which enables a sub-
scriber to dial the last incoming call. A sequence of digits is
usually dialed to activate this feature. Frequently, this ser-
vice continues to dial the desired number if it is initially
busy, and alerts when it is available. Some incoming calls
may not allow for call returning. Also known as last num-
ber redial, or return call.
call second A unit, used for measuring telephone communica-
tions traffic, which equals I call lasting 1 second long. Ten
calls lasting 5 seconds is equal to 50 call seconds, the same
as 5 ca1ls lasting 10 seconds. 100 call seconds equal 1 cen-
tum cal1 second, and 3600 call seconds equal I call hour.
call sign The letters and/or numbers which serve to identify a
broadcast station. Call letters are assigned by licensing au-
thorities, such as governmental agencies. Also known as
call letters.
call trace Same as call tracing.
call tracing A service offered by telephone companies, which
enables a subscriber to trace the last incoming call. This is
generally done to confirm the location from which harassing
calls are received. A sequence of digits is usual1y dialed to
activate this feature, unless the service provides for tracing
of all calls. Some incoming calls may not allow for call
tracing. AIso known as call trace.
call waiting A service offered by telephone companies, which
provides a signal such as a beep heard over a line that is al-
ready in use, to indicate that there is an incoming call. This
feature may be deactivated for occasions when not desired,
such as during a fax transmission.
callback A security measure in which a network verifying the
user name and password of a caller terminates a received
can, then places a new call to the terminal associated with
that user name and password. This procedure serves as an
additional safeguard in case a user name and password are
stolen.
callback modem A modem which upon receiving a call asks
for the phone number of the caller, terminates the connec-
tion, and calls the user back. This enables verification of the camera
user's authorization for access, in addition to tracking usage.
called routine The routine which is invoked by a call (1).
called tone Same as CED tone.
caller 10 Abbreviation of caller identification. A service
offered by telephone companies, which sends the name and camera recorder Same as camcorder.
number of the calling party of an incoming call. A display
device which features caller ID is needed to view this infor-
mation. Alternatively, a caller 10 may only provide the
number of the calling party. Also called caller number de-
livery, or automatic number identification.
caller identification Same as caller 10.
caller number delivery Same as caller 10.
calling name delivery A caller 10 service in which both the camp-on A service offered by telephone companies, which
name and number of calling parties are displayed. Its ab-
breviation is CNAM.
calling point The point at which a call (1) is invoked.
calling routine A routine or subroutine which initiates a call
(1 ).
91 Campbell bridge
calling sequence The steps followed to prepare for a call (1),
to execute it, and to return control to the program that initi-
ated the call, so that it can resume from the caJlingpoint.
calling tone Same as CNG tone.
with infrared radiation. The produced light is a result of
heat, and not by a change in wavelength.
calorie A unit of heat energy. Its abbreviation is cal, and its
symbol is c. One calorie is equal to the heat required to
raise one gram of water one degree Celsius, at a pressure of
one atmosphere. It is equal to approximately 4.186 joules.
One thousand calories equal one kilocalorie, and one kilo-
calorie is equal to one Calorie. Please note that in the case
of the larger Calorie, the term's first letter is capitalized to
distinguish it from the smaller calorie. Often the two terms
are confused because of this minor, and often ignored, dif-
ference.
Calorie A unit of heat energy. Its abbreviation is Cal, and its
symbol is C. One Calorie is equal to the heat required to
raise one kilogram of water one degree Celsius, at a pressure
of one atmosphere. It is equal to approximately 4.186 kilo-
joules. One Calorie is equal to one thousand calories, and
one Calorie is equal to one kilocalorie. Please note that the
first letter of this tenn is capitalized to distinguish it from
the smaller calorie. Often the two terms are confused be-
cause of this minor, and often ignored, difference. Also
called large calorie.
calorimeter A device which measures differences in heat
quantities which accompany chemical and physical changes.
Such a device can measure RF energy by calculating the
heating effect such energy has on a given medium.
CAM 1. Acronym for computer-aided manufacturing.
2. Acronym for content-addressable memory. 3. Acronym
for common-access method.
camcorder Acronym for camera recorder. A portable device
combining a video camera and a videocassette recorder.
These come in various video formats, including YHS, S-
YHS, and 8 mm.
camera 1. A device which converts images into electric sig-
nals. 2. A device that converts images formed by lenses into
electric signals. A photosensitive surface in the contained
camera tube serves as the transducer which converts the op-
tical image into electric video signals suitable for broadcast-
ing, recording, or the like. Also known as TV camera
video camera (1), or telecamera. 3. A device which fo~
cuses light from a viewed image onto a light-sensitive mate-
rial, such as film, so that an image is recorded.
cable A cable which carries the video signal from a
TV camera to the control equipment.
camera chain A TV camera plus the additional equipment
necessary to convey the video signal to the control room.
This additional equipment includes amplifiers, a power
source, a monitor, and the camera cable.
camera signal The output electric video signals from a cam-
era (2).
camera tube An electron tube within a TV camera which
serves as the transducer that converts the optical image into
electric video signals. Also known as TV camera tube,
pickup (3), or pickup tube.
camp Same as camp-on.
enables a caller encountering a busy signal to be placed on
hold on the busy line, so that the instant that line becomes
available the ca1l is connected. Also called camp.
Campbell bridge An AC bridge utilized for comparing mu-
tual inductances.
campus-wide information system
campus-wide information system A computer-based infor-
mation retrieval system used in an educational institution,
such as a university. Useful, for instance, in course selec-
tion, or for accessing required readings. Its abbreviation is
CWIS.
can A metal container which serves to enclose a component.
For example,the outer casing of an electrolyticcapacitor.
CAN Abbreviation of cancel character.
cancel 1. To diminish, annul, or omit. 2. To match in force or
effect, especiallywhen diminishing, annulling,or omitting.
cancel character In data transmission, a control character
indicating that the associated text should be canceled. Its
abbreviation is CAN.
candela The fundamental Sf unit of luminous intensity. For-
merly, it was defined in various manners, ranging from the
light of a certain type of candle under particular conditions,
to more recently as a given proportionof the radiatingpower
of a blackbody under specific conditions. It is currently de-
fined as the luminous intensity of a light source emitting
monochromatic radiation in a given direction at a frequency
of 540 terahertz, with a power of 1/683 watt per steradian in
the specified direction. Its symbol is cd. This term was
formerly known as candle, international candle, standard
candle, or new candle.
candle Former name of candela.
candle power Same as candlepower.
candlepower Luminous intensity expressed in candelas.
Also spelled candle power. Its abbreviation is ep,
cannibalize To remove one or more components from equip-
ment which is in working order, to use for repairingor oper-
ating other equipment.
cannot find server An error 404 resulting from the server not
being available. AIso called server not found.
CAP Abbreviation of carrlerless amplitude phase.
capacimeter Abbreviationof capacitance meter.
capacitance The ability to store electric charge between con-
ductors which are separated by a dielectric material, when a
potential difference exists between said conductors. Its
value is expressed as the ratio of stored electric charge to the
potential difference, and is expressed in farads, although in
practicality this unit is so large that it is more common to
use microfarads or picofarads. Its symbol is C. Formerly,
this concept was known as capacity (4).
capacitance box A device containing an assembly of capaci-
tors and switches, enabling precise adjustment of the capaci-
tance at the terminals.
capacitance bridge A bridge which enables measuring or
comparing a capacitance against a known capacitance. An
example is a Schering bridge.
capacitance filter A filter consisting solely of a capacitor.
Such a filter tends to smooth voltage variations because a
capacitor resists discharging instantaneously. Used, for in-
stance, in audio applications.
capacitance meter A direct-reading meter for measuring
capacitance of circuits or capacitors. Its abbreviation is ca-
pacimeter, or C meter.
capacitance relay A relay which responds to very small
variations in capacitance, similar to those produced by a
human body, or a part of it, such as a hand. Such a device
may be used, for instance, as an intrusion alarm. Also called
proximity relay.
capacitance standard A capacitor whose capacitancevalue is
precisely known, and which serves to measure or compare
unknown capacitances. May be used, for instance in a
Scheringbridge. Also called standard capacitance.
capacitance temperature coefficient A numerical value that
indicates the relationship between a change in the capaci-
92 capacitor microphone
tance of a component, device, material, or area, as a function
of temperature. Also called temperature coefficient of ca-
pacitance.
capacitive Pertaining to capacitance.
capacitive coupling The coupling of two or more circuits by
means of a capacitance. Also called electrostatic cou-
pling.
capacitive diaphragm A metal plate placed inside a
waveguide to introduce capacitive reactance at the transmit-
ted frequency.
capacitive-discharge ignition An automotive ignition system
in which energy is stored in a capacitor, and is then dis-
charged across the gap of a spark plug at the proper inter-
vals.
capacitive feedback The return of part of the energy from the
output of a circuit back to its input by means of a common
capacitance.
capacitive load A load in which current leads voltage. The
capacitive reactance exceeds the inductive reactance in such
a load. Also called leading load.
capacitive loudspeaker Same as capacitor speaker.
capacitive post A post placed inside a waveguide to introduce
capacitive reactance.
capacitive reactance The opposition to the flow of AC by the
capacitance of a capacitor or circuit. Its symbol is Xc, it is
measured in ohms, and its formula is: Xc = 1/2rfC, where
1r is pi, / is frequency in hertz, and C is capacitance in far-
ads.
capacitive speaker Same as capacitor speaker.
capacitive transducer A transducer consisting of two capaci-
tor plates, one fixed and the other flexible or movable,
which converts changes in applied voltage into movement.
Also called electrostatic transducer.
capacitive tuning The tuning of a circuit by adjusting a vari-
able capacitor.
capacitive voltage divider A voltage divider formed by two
or more capacitors.
capacitor A component which has capacitance. The conduc-
tors separated by the dielectric material are known as elec-
trodes or plates. The value of the capacitance will vary de-
pending on the size, shape, and composition of the conduc-
tors, the distance between them, and on the dielectric. In
addition to storing charge, a capacitor blocks DC, and may
be fixed or variable. There are various types, including
mica, electrolytic, metallized paper, and MOS capacitors.
Formerly known as condenser (3).
capacitor amplifier An amplifier circuit whose active com-
ponent is a ferroelectric capacitor whose capacitance varies
as a function of the applied voltage. Also called dielectric
amplifier.
capacitor antenna An antenna which utilizes the capacitance
between two conductors or systems of conductors. Also
called condenser antenna.
capacitor bank A group of capacitors connected in series
and/or parallel.
capacitor color code A system utilizing markings, such as
color dots and bands, to indicate capacitor information such
as values, multipliers, and tolerance.
capacitor filter A power-supply filter in which a capacitor is
connected to the output of the rectifier. That is, the input
component of the filter is a capacitor. Also called capaci-
tor-input filter.
capacitor-input filter Same as capacitor filter.
capacitor loudspeaker Same as capacitor speaker.
capacitor microphone A microphone in which a flexible
metal diaphragm and a rigid plate form a two-plate air ca-
pacitor. As the incident sound waves make the flexible plate
capacitor motor
vibrate. the capacitance is varied, and this causes variations
in the electric current, which in tum can be converted in an
audio-frequency signal. Also called condenser micro-
phone, or electrostatic microphone.
capacitor motor 1. A single-phase induction motor whose
main winding is connected to an AC power source, and
whose auxiliary winding is connected in series with a ca-
pacitor to the same power source. 2. Same as capacitor-
start motor.
capacitor plate One of the electrodes in a capacitor. Also
called plate (2).
capacitor speaker A loudspeaker in which a flexible metal
diaphragm and a rigid plate form a two-plate air capacitor.
The mechanical vibration of its thin sound-producing dia-
phragm is produced by electrostatic fields produced between
it and a rigid plate, each with a high audio voltage applied to
them. Also called capacitor loudspeaker, capacitive
speaker, capacitive loudspeaker, condenser speaker, or
electrostatic speaker.
capacitor-start motor A capacitor motor (1) in which the
auxiliary winding and capacitor are energized only during
starting. Once the motor has reached a determined speed,
the auxiliary winding and capacitor are disconnected. Also
called capacitor motor (2).
capacitor start-run motor A capacitor motor (1) in which
the auxiliary winding and capacitor are energized at all
times. Also called permanent-split capacitor motor.
capacitor voltage The voltage between the terminals of a
capacitor.
capacitors in parallel Two or more capacitors connected in
parallel. The total capacitance is the sum of each of the in-
dividual capacitances, thus, the multiple capacitors act like a
single larger capacitor. AIso called parallel capacitors, or
shunt capacitors.
capacitors in series Two or more capacitors connected in
series. The total capacitance is the reciprocal of the sum of
the reciprocal of the value of each of the individual capaci-
tances. Also called series capacitors.
capacity I. The maximum amount that can be contained,
accommodated, or handled. 2. The ability of a battery or
cell to supply current during a given time interval, usually
expressed in ampere-hours. 3. The amount of data that a
computer or peripheral device can process, store, or trans-
mit. 4. A seldom-used term for capacitance.
capillary electrometer An electrometer which utilizes a
capillary tube containing dilute sulfuric acid and mercury.
The displacement within the tube of the interface between
the sulfuric acid and the mercury is proportional to the cur-
rent being measured. Also called Lippmann electrometer.
Caps lock Same as Caps lock key.
Caps lock key A computer keyboard key that toggles between
upper and lower case. Such a key usually works only on al-
phabetical characters. Also called Caps lock.
capstan On a magnetic tape drive, such as that in a tape deck
or computer tape drive, a motorized rotating shaft which
moves the tape at a constant speed.
captioning Closed-captioning which does not require a de-
coder to display the text and symbols on-screen.
capture The acquiring, receiving, absorbing, or attracting and
holding of an entity. For instance, the receiving of data, or
the acquiring of a neutron by a nucleus.
capture buffer An area in a computer's memory where in-
coming data is stored for a communications program.
capture effect 1. The tendency of one effect dominating over
other. lesser effects. 2. In an FM receiver, the effect occur-
ring when the stronger of two signals, of equal or nearly
equal frequency, totally suppresses the other.
93 carbon microphone
capture ratio In an FM tuner, the minimum ratio between the
intensities of two signals at the same frequency which en-
ables the tuner to reject the weaker signal. Expressed in
decibels.
CAR Acronym for computer-assisted retrieval.
car phone 1. A cellular telephone installed in a land vehicle,
such as a car or truck. Such phones mayor may not be re-
movable from the vehicle, and usuaIIy have an external an-
tenna. Also called mobile phone (2). 2. A hand-held cellu-
lar telephone which can be placed in a cradle in a land vehi-
cle such as a car or truck. The cradle can serve to charge the
phone, and many of them allow the user to engage in con-
versations without holding the phone. Also called mobile
phone (3).
carbolic acid A white or colorless solid whose chemical
formula is C 6H sOH, and which is used, for instance, in
thermosetting plastics. Also called phenol.
carbon A nonmetallic chemical element whose atomic num-
ber is 6. It has the highest melting point of any known ele-
ment, and occurs in several allotropic forms, including dia-
mond, graphite, charcoal, and fullerene. It is present in all
known life forms on this planet, and there are more carbon
compounds than those of all other chemical elements com-
bined. It has over a dozen known isotopes, of which 2 are
stable. Its applications in electronics include its use in elec-
trodes, resistors, lamps, and microphones. Its chemical
symbol is C.
carbon arc I, An electric arc between two carbon electrodes.
2. An electric arc between two electrodes, one of which is
composed of carbon.
carbon-arc lamp An arc lamp whose electrodes are com-
posed of carbon. Also called carbon lamp.
carbon brush A brush composed of carbon, or another mate-
rial that incorporates carbon. Such a brush may be made of
amorphous carbon, or carbon and copper, and may be used
in motors, generators, or potentiometers.
carbon button In a carbon microphone, the container that
holds the carbon granules. Also called button (3), or mi-
crophone button.
carbon-composition resistor Same as carbon resistor.
carbon copy In email, indicative of a message which is being
delivered to one or more additional recipients. AII recipients
of the message are aware of those receiving a carbon copy.
Its abbreviation is cc. Also called courtesy copy.
carbon dioxide laser A gas laser whose tube contains carbon
dioxide as the main active gas. The applications of these
powerful lasers include their use in cutting and welding,
communications, and surgery.
carbon disulfide A faint yellow liquid whose chemical for-
mula is CS z. It is used in the production of vacuum tubes.
carbon electrode An electrode composed of a carbon, some-
times with a small amount of a metal added. Used, for in-
stance, in arc welding.
carbon-film resistor A resistor prepared by depositing a
carbon film onto a ceramic substrate.
carbon granules Fragments of carbon in various shapes,
whose diameter or length across is roughly a few millime-
ters. Used, for instance, in carbon microphones. Also called
granular carbon.
carbon lamp Same as carbon-arc lamp.
carbon microphone A microphone in which a flexible dia-
phragm reacts in response to sound waves, and in a propor-
tional manner applies pressure against one or two containers
filled with carbon granules. This produces fluctuations in
the resistance of the granules, which varies the current pass-
ing through them. Thus, the detected sound waves modulate
the current, which can then be amplified for sound recording
and/or reproduction.
carbon monoxide laser
carbon monoxide laser A gas laser in which carbon monox-
ide is the active gas. The uses for these lasers include cut-
ting, welding,and surgery. Its abbreviation is CO laser.
carbon pile A,variable resistor consisting of a stack of carbon
disks within a metal plate. As the pressure applied to the
stack varies, so does its resistance. The pressure may be
modified, for instance,by turning a knob.
carbon-pile pressure transducer A device which indicates
changes in pressure by monitoring the changes in resistance
of a carbon pile.
carbon-pile regulator Same as a carbon-pile voltage regu-
lator.
carbon-pile rheostat A rheostat which utilizesa carbon pile.
carbon-pile voltage regulator A voltage regulatoremploying
a carbon pile. Also called carbon-pile regulator.
carbon resistor A resistor composed of carbon particles
mixed with a ceramic binder which is formed into a desired
shape, then has leads attached to each end. Also called car-
bon-composition resistor.
carbon tetrachloride A colorless liquid whose chemical
formula is CCI4 It is used in the productionof semiconduc-
tors.
carbon-zinc cell A primary cell in which the positive elec-
trode is carbon, and the negative electrode is zinc. It may be
a wet cell or dry cell. When it is a dry cell with an ammo-
nium chlorideelectrolyte, it is also called Leclanche cell.
carborundum A very hard substance, usually composed of
silicon carbide, which may be used in semiconductors and
thermistors.
carcinotron An oscillator utilizing a special vacuum tube in
which an RF magnetic field interacts with the electronbeam
that travels from cathode to anode. This produces electron
bunching, which in tum produces a backward wave. This
oscillator may be tuned over a wide range of frequencies,
and its output power is extracted near the electrongun. Also
called carcinotron oscillator, or backward-wave oscilla-
tor.
carcinotron oscillator Same as carcinotron.
card I. A circuit board which is plugged into the bus or an
expansion slot of a computer, in order to add functions or
resources. Common examples include graphicsaccelerators,
sound cards, and Ethernet adapters. Also known by various
other terms, including adapter card, expansion card, add-
on board, accessory card, and adapter (3). 2. Same as
circuit board. 3. A card which holds 80 or 96 columns of
data, each representing one character, used by computers
with card readers. This is a practically obsolete storage me-
dium. Alsocalled punched card.
card cage An enclosure which holds cards.
card column In a card (3), a column of data.
card-edge connector A set of wide contacts which protrude
from a circuit board, and which serve to be inserted into an-
other circuit board. Used, for instance, to plug an expansion
board into an expansion slot. Also called edge connector.
card feed In a card system, a device which inserts the cards
into the receivingmachine.
card punch A device which punches holes in cards (3). Also
called keypunch.
card reader 1. A device which reads information which has
been encoded onto a magnetic stripe on a plastic card, such
as a credit card, or driver's license. Also called magnetic
card reader. 2. A device which reads cards (3). Also
called punched-card reader.
card row In a card (3), a row of data.
card slot A slot within a computer into which a card (1) or
card (2) is plugged in.
94 carpal-tunnel syndrome
card system A computer system in which cards (3) are used
for input and output. Such systems are practically obsolete.
Also called punched-card system.
card-to-disk conversion The conversion of data stored on a
card (3) to a computer disk.
card-to-tape conversion The conversion of data stored on a
card (3) to a computer tape.
card verifier A device which verifies the accuracy of data
stored on a card (3).
cardiac pacemaker An electrical device which delivers small
impulses to the heart under specified conditions, and at a
predetermined rate, so as to promote its pumping blood at a
regular pace. Such a device mayor may not be implanted.
Also called pacemaker, heart pacer, or pacer.
cardiogram A graphical recording of the variations in the
electrical activity of the heart. A cardiograph is used to de-
tect and record such activity. Its abbreviation is ECG, or
EKG. Also called electrocardiogram.
cardiograph An instrument which detects and records varia-
tions in the electrical activity of the heart. A cardiogram is
the graphical recording of this activity. Its abbreviation is
ECG, or EKG. Also called electrocardiograph.
cardiography The technique employed to obtain an electro-
cardiogram. Cardiography utilizes electrodes applied to
various parts of the body, which detect the electrical signals
produced by the heart. Also called electrocardiography.
cardioid diagram A graphical representation of a cardioid
pattern.
cardioid microphone A directional microphone whose
pickup pattern is shaped more or less like a heart. In one di-
rection it has a nearly uniform response, while in the oppo-
site direction it has almost none.
cardioid pattern A directivity pattern shaped approximately
like a heart. In one direction there is nearly uniform re-
sponse and/or radiation, while in the opposite direction there
is almost none.
caret On a computer keyboard, a key (1\) which serves, for
instance, to indicate a power a number is raised to. For ex-
ample, 61\6 is the same as 66
careware Software which is freely distributed, and whose
author suggests a donation to charity if the user is so in-
clined.
Carey-Foster bridge A modification of a Wheatstonebridge,
which is used to measure resistances which are nearly iden-
tical.
carousel A circular conveyor upon which objects rest or are
rotated. For example, a CD or DVD changer in which the
disks rest on a rotating tray.
carousel CD player Abbreviation of carousel compact disc
player. A CD player which utilizes a carousel. A CD car-
ousel is usually utilized when a few discs are available, so a
CD jukebox is not likely to use this method to hold discs
awaiting to be swapped, so as to save space.
carousel compact disc player Same as carousel CD player.
carousel DVD player A DVD player which utilizes a carou-
sel. A DVD carousel is usually utilized when a few discs
are available, so a DVD jukebox is not likely to use this
method to hold discs awaiting to be swapped, so as to save
space. Also called DVD carousel player.
carousel player A player, such as a carousel CD or DVD
player, which utilizes a carousel.
carpal-tunnel syndrome Tingling, numbness, and/or pain
that affects a hand and which may radiate into the arm. This
can ultimately lead to decreased dexterity and strength in
said hand, and is due to the compression of a nerve which
travels through the wrist. It is a type of repetitive-strain in-
carrier 95
jury, and years of improper positioning of the wrist while
typing at a keyboard is one cause. Its abbreviation is CTS.
carrier 1. Same as carrier wave. 2. Same as charge carrier.
3. Same as common carrier.
carrier access code A code which an end user of a telecom-
munications service dials to select the service of a given car-
rier. In North America, such codes are in the form of
101XXXX, where the XXXX portion is the carrier identifi-
cation code. Its abbreviation is CAC.
carrier amplifier An amplifier which amplifies a carrier
wave or a carrier current.
carrier beat The result of carrier beating, such as patterns
on a received fax.
carrier beating Unwanted signals resulting from the mixing
of two carrier signals of slightly different frequencies. May
result, for instance, in undesired patterns in a received fax,
or within a TV image.
carrier channell. The lines and equipment which serve to
send a carrier current. AIso called carrier-current channel.
2. The path through which carrier waves travel. 3. A path
along which carrier waves can travel.
carrier chrominance signal Same as chrominance signal.
carrier color signal In color TV, the signal which is added to
the monochrome signal, for the transmission of color infor-
mation.
carrier concentration Same as charge-carrier concentra-
tion.
carrier current 1. AC which is modulated, in order to trans-
mit information. 2. The current component of a carrier
wave.
carrier-current channel Same as carrier channel (1).
carrier density Same as charge-carrier concentration.
carrier detect A signa) a modem sends to the equipment it is
connected to, such as a computer, indicating that it has
sensed a carrier signal. This signifies that it is ready to re-
ceive data. Its abbreviation is CD.
carrier deviation Same as carrier swing.
carrier dropout A temporary loss of a carrier signal.
carrier frequency 1. The frequency of a carrier wave. Such a
frequency is generated by an unmodulated radio transmitter,
and can be modulated in frequency, amplitude, or phase, in
order for it to carry information. 2. The center frequency of
a transmitted carrier wave. A Iso called center frequency
(1 ).
carrier-frequency range The continuous interval of carrier
frequencies within which a transmitter may operate.
carrier identification code A four digit code which identifies
a telecommunications carrier in North America. It consists
of the last four digits of the carrier access code, which is in
the form of 101 XXXX, thus the XXXX portion is the carrier
identification code. Its abbreviation is CIC.
carrier injection The introduction of charge carriers into a
semiconductor. Also, the process utilized. Also caJIed in-
jection (2).
carrier leak In suppressed-carrier transmission, the residual
carrier remaining after suppression.
carrier level The power level of an unmodulated carrier
wave, at any given point, in relation to a reference power
level. Usually expressed in decibels.
carrier lifetime In a semiconductor material, the average time
a charge carrier exists before recombination.
carrier line A transmission line used for transmitting a carrier
signal,
carrier loss A loss of a carrier signal.
carrier mobility The average drift velocity of charge carriers
in a semiconductor material, per unit electric field. Also
called drift mobility, or mobility.
carrier suppression
carrier modulation The process of modifying a characteristic
of a carrier wave by an information-bearing signal, as oc-
curs, for instance, in AM, FM, or PM. Also, the result of
such modulation. For example, in FM, the instantaneous
frequency of a sine-wave carrier is varied above and below
the center frequency by an information-bearing, or modulat-
ing, signal. Also called modulation (2), or RF modulation.
carrier noise In an RF signal, noise produced by variations of
a carrier in the absence of any intended modulation. Also
known as residual modulation (1), or incidental modula-
tion (1).
carrier noise level In an RF signal, the level of carrier noise.
carrier-operated device antinoise Its acronym is codan. 1. A
device which mutes a receiver unless there is an incoming
carrier signal having a given intensity. 2. A device which
mutes a receiver unless there is an incoming signal.
carrier oscillator In a single-sideband receiver, the RF oscil-
lator that supplies the necessary carrier wave.
carrier power Same as carrier power output.
carrier power output The power an RF transmitter supplies
to the transmission line of an antenna when no modulating
signal is present. Also called carrier power.
carrier power-output rating The power an RF transmitter
supplies to the normal-load circuit or its equivalent when no
modulating signal is present.
carrier repeater Equipment which amplifies the power level
of a carrier signal, without increasing the noise level signifi-
cantly. Such equipment includes one or more amplifiers,
filters, equalizers, and so on. A carrier repeater may be uni-
directional or bi-directional.
carrier sense multiple access An Ethernet protocol in which
a station attempts to verify if the network is busy, before
transmitting. Its abbreviation is CSMA.
carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance An
Ethernet protocol similar to carrier sense multiple access
with collision detection, but with the added feature of send-
ing a brief signal indicating its intention to transmit before
doing so. Its abbreviation is CSMA/CA.
carrier sense multiple access with collision detection An
Ethernet protocol for handling the situation in which two
stations transmit simultaneously. When this occurs, this col-
lision of signals is detected, and to avoid another collision,
each stops transmitting and waits a different, random inter-
val before attempting to retransmit. Its abbreviation is
CSMA/CD.
carrier shift 1. In AM, the unwanted variation of average
carrier power, resulting in imperfect modulation. 2. In
communications utilizing frequency-shift modulation, shift-
ing the carrier frequency to differentiate between a mark and
a space. Shifting in one direction indicates a mark, while
shifting in the other indicates a space.
carrier signal A signal which is modulated in frequency,
amplitude, or phase, in order for it to carry information. For
instance, an AM radio transmitter modulates the amplitude
of a carrier signal. Also called signal carrier.
carrier signaling In multichannel carrier transmission, a
technique which uses carrier waves for signaling functions
such as ringing and dialing.
carrier storage The accumulation of charge carriers in a
semiconductor device such as a transistor. Also called
charge storage (2).
carrier suppression Also called suppressed-carrier trans-
mission. 1. A mode of transmission in which the carrier
wave is suppressed after carrier modulation, in which case
only one or both sidebands are transmitted. The carrier
wave is restored at the receiving terminal for demodulation.
2. A mode of transmission in which the carrier wave is sup-
pressed when there is no modulating signal.
carrier swing
carrier swing For a frequency or phase-modulated carrier
wave, the total deviation, ranging from the lowest to the
highest instantaneous frequencies. Also called carrier de-
viation.
carrier system A communications system in which a number
of channels simultaneously travel over a single path by
modulating each channel using a different carrier frequency
and then demodulating at the receiving terminal to restore
each signal to its original form.
carrier telegraphy Telegraphy in which a carrier wave is
modulatedfor transmitting signals.
carrier telephony Telephony in which a carrier wave is
modulated by an audio-frequency signal, for transmission
over wire lines.
carrier terminal The equipment at each end of a carrier
transmission system. This equipment performs functions
such as modulation, amplification, and demodulation. Also
called carrier terminal equipment.
carrier terminal equipment Same as carrier terminal.
carrier-to-noise ratio The ratio of the RF carrier level to the
RF noise level, before modulation. Usually expressed in
decibels. Its abbreviation is CNR.
carrier transmission Transmission of a signal which is the
result of the modulation of a carrier wave. If the carrier
wave is suppressed after modulation, it is called sup-
pressed-carrier transmission.
carrier voltage The voltage component of a carrier wave.
carrier wave An electromagnetic wave which is intended to
be modulated by an information-bearing signal. Such a
wave may be amplitude, frequency, or phase modulated.
Used in RF transmissions such as those of TV, radio, tele-
phone, or satellite. Also caned carrier (1). Its abbreviation
isCW.
carrierless amplitude phase A modulation technique similar
to quadrature amplitude modulation. It is used in DSL, but
discrete multitone is currently preferred. Its abbreviation is
CAP.
carry 1. In arithmetic, the transferring of a digit to another
column. For example, moving a digit to the column of the
next higher position when the sum of the digits in a column
exceeds the base of the number system. 2. In computers and
counters, a signal, such as a carry flag, which indicates that
there is a carry (1).
carry bit A bit which indicates that there is an arithmetical
operation with a carry (1).
carry flag A signal or circuit which indicates that there is an
arithmetical operation with a carry (1).
carry time The time required for a computer or counter to
perform a carry (1) operation.
carrying capacity The maximum amount of current that a
conductor, component, or device can handle safely.
Cartesian axis Each of the mutually perpendicular lines
which intersect at a common point called the origin, and
which is used within a Cartesian coordinate system.
When representing three planes, for instance, each axis is
designated by the letters x, y, and z, respectively. Also
called rectangular axis.
Cartesian-coordinate robot A robot whose movements are
along Cartesian axes. For example, a manipulator may be
able to move along the x, y, and z axes. Used in robotic ap-
plications such as assembly, gluing, or arc welding. Also
called rectangular-coordinate robot. Its abbreviation is
CCR.
Cartesian coordinate system A coordinate system in which
the locations of points are given in reference to the axes,
numbering two or more. Each of these coordinate axes is
perpendicular to the others, and all intersect at a common
point called the origin. Each coordinate axis, or Cartesian
96 cascade noise
axis, represents a plane called a Cartesian plane. A number
of lines, equal to the number of planes, may be drawn from
the origin to any given point on a plane or in space, and the
exact location of this point can be specified by giving the
coordinates with respect to the axes. Also called rectangu-
lar coordinate system. Its abbreviation is CCS.
Cartesian coordinates Each of the sets of numbers which
locate a point on a plane or in space, according to a Carte-
sian coordinate system. If there are two planes, for in-
stance, then a point is located by specifying the position in
reference to each of the axes, one that is usually horizontal
and denominated x, and one that is usually vertical and de-
nominated y. Also called rectangular coordinates.
Cartesian manipulator A robotic manipulator whose move-
ments are along Cartesian axes. For example, a manipulator
may be able to move along the x, y, and z axes. Used in ap-
plications such as assembly, gluing, or arc welding.
Cartesian plane A coordinate plane whose points are speci-
fied by Cartesian coordinates.
cartridge 1. A case or container which holds a device or
substance which is intended to be plugged into a larger piece
of equipment. For instance, such a container enclosing ink,
a magnetic tape, or a printed circuit. 2. A removable com-
puter storage device which contains a magnetic or optical
disk. For instance, a floppy disk. Also called disk car-
tridge. Also, such a device utilizing a chip or another stor-
age medium. 3. A container, which houses a length of mag-
netic media, that can be plugged into the appropriate device
in a manner that eliminates the need for directly handling the
contents. For instance, a videotape, or a continuous-loop
tape cartridge. 4. In a phonograph, an electromechanical
transducer whose stylus vibrates as it follows the grooves of
a record, and which converts these vibrations into electric
signals. There are various types, including moving coil and
piezoelectric, and each attaches to a phonograph arm. Also
called phonograph cartridge, phonograph pickup, phono
cartridge, or pickup (2).
cartridge fuse A fuse whose fusible element is contained in
an insulating enclosure, so as to minimize damage to any
components immediately surrounding it. Such fuses have
ferrules on each end for plug-in connection.
CAS Abbreviation of collision-avoidance system.
cascade 1. A connected series of two or more images, stages,
elements, or devices which interact or function in sequence.
A cascading menu is an example. 2. Same as cumulative
ionization. 3. The connection of two or more circuits or de-
vices in a manner that the output of one is the input of the
next. Seen, for example in a cascade amplifier. Also called
tandem.
cascade amplifier An amplifier with two or more stages
arranged in a manner that the output of one serves as the in-
put for the next, while amplifying at each step. Also called
cascaded amplifier, or multistage amplifier.
cascade arrangement Same as cascade connection.
cascade connection An arrangement or connection which
forms a cascade. Also called cascade arrangement.
cascade control An automatic control system in which the
control units are linked in a chain where each unit controls
the succeeding one. Also called piggyback control.
cascade image tube An image tube with various sections, in
which the output image of one section serves as the input for
the next. Used, for instance, for detection of low levels of
light.
cascade limiter A limiter circuit which has two or more
stages arranged in a manner that the output of one serves as
the input for the next. Also called double limiter.
cascade noise The noise in a cascade amplifier after a signal
has proceeded through all the amplifying stages.
cascade star topology 97
cascade star topology In LANs, two or more star networks
which are connected to each other, each linked by their hub.
Also called cascaded stars.
cascade transformer A transformer which incorporates two
or more step-up transformers.
cascaded Arranged or connected in a manner which forms a
cascade.
cascaded amplifier Same as cascade amplifier.
cascaded stars Same as cascade star topology.
cascading 1. The connection or arrangement of two or more
devices or elements, in a manner that they function in se-
quence, or that the output of one is the input of the next.
2. In an electrical power system, successive failures stem-
ming from an incident at a given location. This may result
in widespread service interruption.
cascading menu In a computer program, a pull-down menu
which leads to various choices, some of which may provide
further selection options, and so on.
cascading style sheets An HTML feature which enables the
applying of style elements such as headers, fonts, and links
to any Web page, separately from its specific content. This
facilitates providing related Web pages with a similar style,
and also allows for general modifications by changing these
style sheets instead of the individual Web pages. Its abbre-
viation is CSS.
cascading windows On a computer screen, a group of win-
dows arranged in a manner that they overlap one another.
The title bars are generally visible, allowing a user to know
which windows are open. Also called overlaid windows.
eascode Same as cascode amplifier.
cascode amplifier An amplifier circuit with a grounded-
emitter input stage followed by a grounded-base output
stage. It features high gain and low noise. Used, for in-
stance, in TV tuners. Also called cascode, or cascode cir-
cuit.
cascode circuit Same as cascode amplifier.
CASE Acronym for computer-aided software engineering,
computer-assisted software engineering, computer-
automated software engineering, computer-aided sys-
tems engineering, and computer-automated systems en-
gineering.
case-based reasoning An expert system which solves prob-
lems based on cases which encompass previous experiences
that are relevant to the task at hand. Such an approach is
best suited for problems that are narrow in scope, but which
have many layers.
case insensitive Indicative of a program that does not distin-
guish between uppercase and lowercase characters. For in-
stance, on the Internet, most email addresses may be written
in any combination of uppercase and lowercase letters. This
contrasts with case sensitive, where such distinctions are
made.
case sensitive Indicative of a program that distinguishes up-
percase and lowercase characters. For instance, in a text
search where the capitalization of words and/or letters is
specified to pinpoint the desired results. Another example is
seen on the Internet, where a uniform resource locator may
require certain characters to be upper and/or lower case to
access the correct Web address. This contrasts with case in-
sensitive, where such distinctions are not made.
case-sensitive search A database search where uppercase and
lowercase characters are distinguished, and must be cor-
rectly specified to obtain the desired results.
case sensitivity The characteristic of being case sensitive.
CASE technology A software technology which enables
CASE.
CASE tools The resources available to software engineers
utilizing CASE technology. Such tools include automatic
coding and intelligent agents.
cataphoresis
Cassegrain antenna A microwave antenna in which the feed
radiator, mounted at or near the surface of the main reflec-
tor, is directed towards a small convex reflector at the focal
point of the dish. The small reflector then redirects the sig-
nal back to the dish, which in tum produces the desired for-
ward beam.
Cassegrain feed The feed system used in a Cassegrain an-
tenna.
cassette 1. A flat compact case containing magnetic tape and
two floating reels, one for supply, the other for take-up. It is
designed for easy insertion and removal from devices in-
tended for their use. Utilized, for instance for audio or
videotapes, or for data backup. Also called tape cassette.
2. A lightproof housing for photographic film or plates.
cassette deck A magnetic tape player intended for recording
and playing back audio cassettes. Also called cassette
player (2), or cassette recorder (2).
cassette player 1. A magnetic tape player intended for play-
ing back audio cassettes. 2. Same as cassette deck.
cassette recorder 1. A magnetic tape player intended for
recording audio cassettes. 2. Same as cassette deck.
cassette tape The tape in a cassette (1).
castellations In a chip package such as a leadless ceramic
chip carrier, metallic pads which are utilized for the inter-
connection of conductive surfaces. Castellations are used
instead of leads consisting of metal prongs or wires, and are
usually flush with the package or recessed.
castor oil A pale yellow viscous oil used in electrical insula-
tion compounds and in capacitors. Also called ricinus oil.
CAT 1. Acronym for computerized axial tomography,
computed axial tomography, computer axial tomogra-
phy, computer-aided tomography, and computer-assisted
tomography. 2. Acronym for computer-aided teaching, or
computer-assisted teaching. 3. Acronym for computer-
assisted training, or computer-aided training. 4. Acro-
nym for computer-aided testing, or computer-assisted
testing. S. Acronym for computer-aided translation, or
computer-assisted translation.
CA T 1 cable Abbreviation of category 1 cable.
CAT 2 cable Abbreviation of category 2 cable.
CAT 3 cable Abbreviation of category 3 cable.
CAT 4 cable Abbreviation of category 4 cable.
CAT S cable Abbreviation of category 5 cable.
CAT 6 cable Abbreviation of category 6 cable.
CAT 7 cable Abbreviation of category 7 cable.
CAT scan Same as computed tomography. Abbreviation of
computerized axial tomography scan.
CA T scanner Same as CT scanner. Abbreviation of com-
puterized axial tomography scanner.
cat whisker Also spelled catwhisker. A thin and flexible
wire used to make electric contact on the surface of a semi-
conductor
catalog 1. A directory, list, or index of files or other data
stored in a computer or computer application, such as a da-
tabase. A catalog includes information such as the name,
size, location, or the like, of said files or data. 2. To enter
data into a catalog (1).
catalyst 1. A substance that accelerates a chemical reaction
significantly, and which is not itself consumed in the proc-
ess. By the end of the reaction, a catalyst is returned to its
original state. An example is the platinum utilized in a fuel
cell. 2. Any agent which speeds up a process significantly.
cataphoresis Migration, toward the cathode, of charged parti-
cles suspended in a medium under the influence of an elec-
tric field produced by electrodes immersed in said medium.
When migration is toward the anode, it is called anaphore-
sis.
catastrophic failure 98
catastrophic failure A sudden, unexpected, and complete
failure of a component, device, program, or system. This
contrasts with a degradation failure, where failure occurs
after a gradualdeterioration.
catcher In a velocity-modulated tube, such as a klystron, the
cavity from which the output is taken. It is located where
maximum electron bunching occurs. Also called catcher
cavity, or output resonator.
catcher cavity Same as catcher.
catching diode A diode connected in a manner that it short-
circuits any time its anode becomes positive relative to its
cathode. This occurs as a result of its cathode attracting
moreelectronsthan its anode.
category 1 cable Unshielded twisted pair wire used for
transmission of audio frequencies. Used, for instance, for
telephone communications. Its abbreviation is CAT 1 ca-
ble.
category 2 cable Unshieldedtwisted pair wire used for digital
or data transmissions at speeds up to about 1.5 Mbps, or
about t.5 MHz. Its nominal impedance is roughly 100
ohms. Used, for instance, for digital telephone communica-
tions. Its abbreviation is CAT 2 cable.
category 3 cable Shielded or unshielded twisted pair wire
used for digital or data transmissions at speeds up to about
16 Mbps, or about 16 MHz. Its nominal impedance is
roughly 100 ohms. Used, for instance, LANs. Its abbrevia-
tion is CAT 3 cable.
category 4 cable Shielded or unshielded twisted pair wire
used for digital or data transmissions at speeds up to about
20 Mbps, or about 20 MHz. Its nominal impedance is
roughly 100 ohms. Used, for instance, LANs. Its abbrevia-
tion is CAT 4 cable.
category 5 cable Shielded or unshielded twisted pair wire
used for digital or data transmissions at speeds up to about
100 Mbps, or about 100 MHz. Its nominal impedance is
roughly 100 ohms. Used, for instance, for ATM communi-
cations. Its abbreviationis CAT 5 cable.
category 6 cable Cabling used for digital or data transmis-
sions at speeds up to about 250 Mbps, or about 250 MHz.
Used, for instance, for ATM communications. Its abbrevia-
tion is CAT 6 cable.
category 7 cable Cabling used for digital or data transmis-
sions at speeds up to about 1000 Mbps, or about 1000MHz.
Used, for instance, for ATM communications. Its abbrevia-
tion is CAT 7 cable.
catenate Same as concatenate.
catenation Same as concatenation.
cathode Also called negative electrode. 1. The electrode
which is the source of electrons in an electron tube. These
electronstravel towards the anode. Its symbol is K. 2. The
negativeelectrode in an electrolyticcell. When a current is
passed through the cell, positive ions travel towards it.
3. The electrode where reduction occurs in an electrochemi-
cal cell.
cathode bias In an electron tube, obtainingof the correctbias
utilizinga dropping resistor instead of an externalbias volt-
age.
cathode-coupled amplifier A cascade amplifier in which a
common-cathode resistorcouples energy between stages.
cathode coupling The utilizationof input or output elements
in a cathodeto couple energybetween stages.
cathode current In an electron tube, the currentflowing from
the cathode.
cathode dark space In a glow-discharge tube, a narrow dark
space near the cathode, between the cathode glow and the
negative glow. Also called Crookes dark space. Hittorf
dark space, or dark space (2).
cathode sputtering
cathode drop In a glow-dischargetube, a potential difference
due to a space charge near the cathode. Also called cathode
fall.
cathode efficiency For a given electrochemical process, the
ratio of the current theoretically required at the cathode, to
the actual amountneeded.
cathode emission 1. The process by which electrons are emit-
ted from a cathode. 2. The electrons releasedby a cathode.
cathode fall Same as cathode drop.
cathode follower An electron-tube amplifier in which the
anode is at ground potential at the operating frequency. The
input is appliedbetween the control grid and ground,and the
output is taken from between the cathode and ground. Such
an amplifier features high input impedance, low output im-
pedance, and a wide frequency response with little phase
distortion. Also known as common-anode amplifier,
grounded-plate amplifier, or grounded-anode amplifier.
cathode glow In a glow-discharge tube, a luminous region
near the cathode, between the Aston dark space and the
Crookes dark space. The electrons in this region have the
necessary velocityto excite the gas in the tube.
cathode modulation In an electron tube, amplitude modula-
tion obtained by varying the voltage to the cathode propor-
tionallyto the fluctuationsin the modulatingwave.
cathode ray A stream of electrons emittedby the cathodeof a
gas-discharge or vacuum tube, by a region immediately sur-
rounding a cathode, or that emitted by a heated filament in
certain electron tubes. Among other things, and depending
on the circumstances, cathode rays directed onto a solid ma-
terial may produce X-rays, phosphorescence, or heat. A
CRT, for instance, can use focused electron beams directed
onto a phosphor screen to produce images displayed by a
TV. Please note that the term for a stream of electronsemit-
ted from a radioactive chemical element is beta rays, not
cathoderays.
cathode-ray oscillograph A cathode-ray oscilloscope which
incorporates a device which produces a permanentrecord of
what is displayed.
cathode-ray oscilloscope An instrumentwhich uses a CRT to
produce visible patterns of one or more varying electrical
quantities, or nonelectrical quantities, such as acoustic
waves, with the assistance of a transducer. A cathode-ray
oscilloscope typically displays variations in voltage plotted
versus time, and may be used, for instance, to monitor sig-
nals such as brain waves. Its abbreviation is eRO, or scope
(1). Also called oscilloscope (1).
cathode-ray output The visible output of a CRT, such as the
imagesseen on a computer or TV screen.
cathode-ray television tube A CRT used in a TV, for view-
ing the received images. Also called picture tube, or kine-
scope.
cathode-ray tube Same as CRT.
cathode-ray tube computer monitor Same as CRT com-
puter monitor.
cathode-ray tube display Same as CRT display.
cathode-ray tube display device Same as CRT display
device.
cathode-ray tube monitor Same as CRT monitor.
cathode-ray tube screen Same as CRT screen.
cathode-ray tube terminal Same as CRT terminal.
cathode rays Same as cathode ray.
cathode spot In a gas tube, an area of the cathode from which
an arc originates.
cathode sputtering Also called cathodic sputtering. 1. In a
vacuumtube, the emission of particles from a cathodewhich
is disintegrating as a consequenceof bombardment by high-
energy ions. Also called sputtering (4). 2. The use of
cathodic
cathode sputtering (1) to deposit a thin film of a metal onto
a surface such as glass, metal, or plastic. Also called sput-
tering (5).
cathodic Pertaining to, or relative to a cathode.
cathodic current In an electron tube, the current flowing
from the cathode.
cathodic polarization A change in the potential of a cathode
resulting from the effects of current flow at or near the sur-
face of said cathode.
cathodic protection The reduction or prevention of corrosion
of a metallic material by making it the cathode in a conduc-
tive medium that has a sacrificial anode. This conductive
medium may occur naturally, or can be applied externally.
Used, for instance, in certain pipelines, bridges, and other
metal structures requiring corrosion protection over an ex-
tended period of time. Also called electrolytic protection.
cathodic sputtering Same as cathode sputtering.
cathodofluorescence Fluorescence occurring under bom-
bardment by cathode rays.
cathodoluminescence Luminescence occurring when a metal
in an electron tube is bombarded by cathode rays. The
wavelength of the light emitted is characteristic of the bom-
barded metal.
cathodophosphorescence Phosphorescence produced when a
metal in an electron tube is bombarded by cathode rays.
catholyte In an electrolytic cell, the portion of the electrolyte
in the immediate vicinity of the cathode.
cation A positively charged ion. Cations collect at the cath-
ode when subjected to an electric potential while in solution.
Sodium ion and potassium ion are two common cations.
Also called positive ion.
CATV Abbreviation of cable TV.
catwhisker Same as cat whisker.
caustic soda A white chemical compound whose formula is
NaOH. Its applications in electronics include its use in
electroplating and etching. Also called sodium hydroxide.
caustic soda cell A cell which utilizes an aqueous solution of
caustic soda as its electrolyte. An example is a Lalande
cell.
caustic soda electrolyte An electrolyte which consists of an
aqueous solution of caustic soda.
caution label A label placed in a visible location to inform of
precautions that must be taken, such as proper handing pro-
cedures. Caution labels may be utilized, for instance, to ad-
vise of high-voltage installations, or to point out compo-
nents, devices, and equipment which require special han-
dling to avoid electrostatic-discharge damage.
CAV Abbreviation of constant angular velocity.
CAVE Acronym for Computer Automatic Virtual Envi-
ronment, or Computer Automated Virtual Environment.
cavity 1. A hole, enclosure, or hollow area within a body.
2. Same as cavity resonator.
cavity coupling The removal of electromagnetic energy from
a cavity resonator through a coupling, such as an aperture.
cavity filter A microwave filter that incorporates a cavity
resonator.
cavity frequency meter An instrument which incorporates a
cavity resonator to measure microwave frequencies. Also
called cavity wavemeter.
cavity magnetron A magnetron whose anode has several
cavity resonators. Used, for instance, in a rising-sun mag-
netron.
cavity oscillator An oscillator whose frequency is determined
by a cavity resonator.
cavity radiation The radiated energy from a cavity radiator.
99 CCO memory
cavity radiator An enclosure which is sealed, except for a
small opening through which radiant energy may enter or
escape. The radiation of such an enclosure approximates
that ofa blackbody. Also called radiator (4).
cavity resonance 1. The resonance, at microwave frequen-
cies, occurring in a cavity resonator. 2. Vibration of a
speaker baffle at its resonant frequency. If this occurs in the
audible range, such a frequency will be unduly accentuated.
cavity resonator An enclosure which is able to maintain an
oscillating electromagnetic field when suitably excited. The
geometry of the cavity determines the resonant frequency.
Used, for instance, in lasers, klystrons, or magnetrons, or as
a filter. Also known by various other names, including cav-
ity (2), resonant cavity, resonant chamber, resonating
cavity, microwave cavity, microwave resonance cavity,
waveguide resonator, and rhumbatron.
cavity tuning The adjusting of the interior geometry of a
cavity resonator, which in tum changes its resonant fre-
quency. Used for, instance, for tuning an oscillator or am-
plifier.
cavity wavemeter Same as cavity frequency meter.
CD 1. Abbreviation of citizens' band. 2. Abbreviation of
circuit breaker.
Cb 1. Chemical symbol for columbium. 2. Within the
YCbCr color model, one of the two color-difference signals.
The other is Cr (2).
CDE Abbreviation of computer-based education.
CBGA Abbreviation of Ceramic Ball Grid Array.
CBI Abbreviation of computer-based instruction.
CBL Abbreviation of computer-based learning.
CDR 1. Abbreviation of computer-based reference. 2. Ab-
breviation of constant bit rate. 3. Abbreviation of cosmic
background radiation.
CDT 1. Abbreviation of computer-based teaching. 2. Ab-
breviation of computer-based training.
cc 1. Abbreviation of courtesy copy, or carbon copy.
2. Abbreviation of closed-captioning. 3. Abbreviation of
closed-captioned.
CCC Abbreviation clear-channel capability, or clear-
channel coding.
CCCS Abbreviation of current-controlled current source.
CCO Abbreviation of charge-coupled device. A semiconduc-
tor device with a matrix of many minute photosensitive ele-
ments which convert optical images into electric charges.
Each sensing element, which corresponds to an image pixel,
generates a charge which varies proportionally to the inten-
sity of the light received. These charges are then passed on
individually and in rows, so as to form a continuous analog
signal. Analog-to-digital converters convert this analog in-
put into a digital output, and the obtained information can be
stored or otherwise processed. Used for machine vision,
computer memory, digital and TV cameras, and in tele-
scopes which are able to detect single photons of light.
CCO array Abbreviation of charge-coupled device array. A
photosensitive array within a CCD.
CCO camera Abbreviation of charge-coupled device cam-
era. A camera which utilizes a CCO as its image sensor.
CCO detector Abbreviation of charge-coupled device detec-
tor. Same as CCO image sensor.
CCO image sensor Abbreviation of charge-coupled device
image sensor. An image sensor consisting of a CCD. Also
called CCO detector, or CCD sensor.
CeD imaging Abbreviation of charge-coupled device Imag-
ing. The creation of images using a CCO.
CCO memory Abbreviation of charge-coupled device mem-
ory. Computer memory that utilizes CCDs for storage and
retrieval.
CCO scanner
CCO scanner Abbreviation of charge-coupled device scan-
ner. A scanner utilizing a CCO as its image sensor.
CCO sensor Abbreviation of charge-coupled device sensor.
Same as CCD image sensor.
CCO spectrometer Abbreviation of charge-coupled device
spectrometer. A spectrometer which incorporates a CCO
array.
CCO telescope Abbreviation of charge-coupled device tele-
scope. A telescope which utilizes a CCD as its image sen-
sor.
CCO TV camera Abbreviation of charge-coupled device
television camera. A TV camera which utilizes a CCD as
its image sensor.
CCO video camera Abbreviation of charge-coupled device
video camera. A video camera which utilizes a CCD as its
image sensor.
CCFL Abbreviation of cold-cathode fluorescent lamp.
CCFT Abbreviation of cold-cathode fluorescent tube.
CCIR 601 Former name of the ITU-R BT.601 standard.
CCIS Abbreviation of common-channel interoffice signal-
ing.
ccNUMA Abbreviation of cache-coherent non-uniform
memory access.
CCR Abbreviation of Cartesian-coordinate robot.
CCS 1. Abbreviation of Cartesian coordinate system.
2. Abbreviation of common-channel signaling. 3. Abbre-
viation of centum call second.
CCTV Abbreviation of closed-circuit TV.
CCTV monitor Abbreviation of closed-circuit TV monitor.
CCTV signal Abbreviation of closed-circuit TV signal.
CCTV surveillance Abbreviation of closed-circuit TV sur-
veillance.
CCTV system Abbreviation of closed-circuit TV system.
CCTV transmission Abbreviation of closed-circuit TV
transmission.
CCVS Abbreviation of current-controlled voltage source.
ccw Abbreviation of counterclockwise.
cd Symbol for candela.
Cd Chemical symbol for cadmium.
CO 1. Abbreviation of compact disc. A digital optical storage
medium, usually 12 centimeters in diameter, whose con-
tained information is encoded in microscopic pits on its me-
tallic surface, which is protected by a plastic layer. Since
there is no contact between the pickup and the recorded sur-
face, wear is minimized, and the protective layer helps avoid
reading errors due to dust or minor marks on the surface of
the disc. To recover the recorded content, a laser is focused
on the metallic surface of the disc, and the reflected light is
modulated by the code on said disc. Compact discs can be
used to store any type of digitally encoded information, and
are used especially for music, computer multimedia content,
or movies. A music CD, for instance, can usually hold up to
74 minutes of recorded sound, a CD-ROM can store up to
around 680 megabytes, and the capacity of a DVD is up to
17 OB. 2. Abbreviation of carrier detect.
CD audio Abbreviation of compact disc audio. Reproduction
of audio in which CDs store the music, voices, and sounds.
Also called CD digital audio.
CD burner Abbreviation of compact disc burner. Same as
CD recorder (1).
CD business card Abbreviation of compact disc business
card. An optical disc, such as a CD, CD-ROM, or DVD,
that is in the general shape of a business card, and which is
utilized for promotion. Alternatively, other shapes may be
used. Also caJled business card CD.
100 CD recorder
CD caddy Abbreviation of compact disc caddy. A plastic
case that holds an optical disc, such as a CD, CD-ROM, or
DVD. The caddy is placed into the drive with the disc in-
side. Nearly all CD drives now accept only the CD, which
is placed on the tray of the drive. Also called caddy (1).
CD carousel player Abbreviation of compact disc carousel
player. Same as carousel CD player.
CD changer Abbreviation of compact disc changer. A CD
player that holds more than one CD. Discs may be
swapped, but only one can be read at once.
CD-DA Abbreviation of compact disc digital audio. Same as
CD audio.
CD digital audio Abbreviation of compact disc digital audio.
Same as CD audio.
CD drive A computer drive that accepts CDs or CD-ROMs.
CO-E Abbreviation of compact disc-erasable. Same as CD-
RW.
CD-erasable Abbreviation of compact disc-erasable. Same
asCD-RW.
CD-extra Abbreviation of compact disc-extra. A CD format
which contains both audio and data, separated into two ses-
sions. The first session contains up to 98 audio tracks, while
the second session has one data track. Such discs may be
played in audio CD players or a computer CD drive. An au-
dio CD player will ignore the second session, while a com-
puter CD drive can read both sessions. Also called CD-
plus, enhanced CD, or enhanced CD-ROM.
CO-G Abbreviation of compact disc plus graphics. An audio
CD format that adds text and graphics. May only be used
with specially-equipped CD players.
CD-I Abbreviation of compact disc-interactive. A CD for-
mat which can store multimedia content on high-capacity
discs. Such discs will only work with CD-I players, and
such players incorporate their own microprocessor. Also
called CD interactive system.
CD-( player A device which can read the information stored
on a CD-I.
CD interactive Same as CD-I.
CD interactive system Same as CD-I.
CD jukebox Abbreviation of compact disc jukebox. A CD
changer which can hold many, up to several thousand, discs.
Discs may be swapped, but only one can be read at once.
CD player Abbreviation of compact disc player. A device
which can read the information stored on a CD (1). To re-
cover the recorded content, a laser is focused on the metallic
surface of the disc, and the reflected light is modulated by
the code on said disc. Computer CD-ROM players can also
serve as CD players when an audio CD is placed in the
drive. Also called CD system.
CD-plus Same as CD-extra.
CD-R Abbreviation of compact disc-recordable. A CD-
ROM technology that aJlows a CD to be recorded. A CD
recorder is used for this purpose, and such discs can only be
written on once.
CD read-only memory Abbreviation of compact disc read-
only memory. Same as CD-ROM.
CD-recordable Same as CD-R.
CD recorder Abbreviation of compact disc recorder. 1. A
device used to record CD-ROMs. A laser records the de-
sired content, forming the equivalent of pits on the record-
able surface by altering the reflectivity of a dye layer. When
such a disc is placed in a player, its laser pickup reads the
patterns as if they had been permanently stamped into its
metallic surface. Also called CD burner, CD writer or
CD-ROM recorder, or CD-ROM burner. 2. A device
used to record CDs.
CD-rewritable 101
CD-rewritable Abbreviation of compact disc-rewritable.
Same as CD-RW.
CD rewritable disc A CD which can be rewritten many
times. Its abbreviation is CD-RW disc. Also called rewri-
table CD (2).
CD-ripper Software that copies data from an audio CD to a
computer hard drive. AIso called ripper (2).
CD-ROM Abbreviation of compact disc read-only memory.
1. A compact disc format which can be used to store any
type of digitally encoded information, especially computer
multimedia content. Discs using this format can store up to
around 680 megabytes of information, or up to 74 minutes
of recorded sound. These discs can not be rewritten, and a
CD-ROM drive is used to read them. While audio CDs may
be played on CD-ROM drives, CD-ROMs will not work
with audio CD players unless they contain audio and are
specifically formatted for compatibility with standard play-
ers. Computer DVD players can usually also play CD-
ROMs. 2. Same as CD-ROM disc.
CD-ROM burner Same as CD recorder (1).
CD-ROM caddy Abbreviation of compact disc read-only
memory caddy. A plastic case that holds a CD-ROM. The
caddy is placed into the drive with the disc inside. Nearly
all CD-ROM drives now accept only the disc, which is
placed on the tray of the drive. Also called caddy (2).
CD-ROM changer Abbreviation of compact disc read-only
memory changer. A CD-ROM player that holds more than
one CD-ROM disc. Discs may be swapped, but only one
can be read at once.
CD-ROM disc A disc intended for use with a CD-ROM
drive. Such a disc usually holds computer multimedia con-
tent. Also called CD-ROM (2).
CD-ROM drive Abbreviation of compact disc read-only
memory drive. A computer drive that reads the content
stored on CD-ROM discs. The contained information is en-
coded in microscopic pits on its metallic surface, which is
protected by a plastic layer. To recover the recorded con-
tent, a laser is focused on the metallic surface of the disc,
and the reflected light is modulated by the code on said disc.
Also called CD-ROM player, or CD-ROM reader.
CD-ROM extended architecture Same as CD-ROM XA.
CD-ROM jukebox Abbreviation of compact disc read-only
memory jukebox. A CD-ROM changer that can hold
many, up to several thousand, CD-ROMs. Discs may be
swapped, but only one can be read at once. This contrasts
with a CD-ROM tower, which can access multiple discs
simultaneously.
CD-ROM player Same as CD-ROM drive.
CD-ROM reader Same as CD-ROM drive.
CD-ROM recorder Same as CD recorder (1).
CD-ROM server A CD-ROM tower intended for network
use.
CD-ROM tower Abbreviation of compact disc read-only
tower. An enclosure containing multiple CD-ROM drives.
All the drives are accessible at all times. This contrasts with
a CD-ROM jukebox, which can only access one disc at a
time. Used, for instance, in networks. Also called CD
tower (1).
CD-ROM writer Same as CD recorder (1).
CD-ROM XA Abbreviation of compact disc read-only mem-
ory extended architecture. A CD-ROM format which can
store multimedia content on high-capacity discs. These
discs can play on computer CD-ROM drives with a special
controller card.
CD-RW Abbreviation of compact disc-rewritable. A CD
technology which allows discs to be rewritten many times.
A laser records the desired content, forming the equivalent
of pits on the recordable surface by altering the reflectivity
cdmaOne
of a dye layer. When such a disc is placed in a player, its
laser pickup reads the patterns as if they had been perma-
nently stamped into its metallic surface. Also called CD-
erasable, CD-E, or rewritable CD.
CD-RW disc Same as CD rewritable disc.
CD system Same as CD player.
CD-text Abbreviation of compact disc-text. An audio CD
format which incorporates text pertaining to the title, artist,
tracks, and so on. Discs in this format may be played on any
CD player, but only specially-equipped devices can display
the contained text.
CD tower 1. Same as CD-ROM tower. 2. An enclosure
containing multiple CD drives. All the drives mayor may
not be accessible at all times.
CD-UDF Abbreviation of compact disc-universal data for-
mat. A file format that can be used in rewritable or record-
able compact discs, that stores data in packets as opposed to
doing so in a continuous stream.
CD video Abbreviation of compact disc video. A compact
disc format which incorporates video, along with the audio.
These may only be read by specific devices, such as a CD
video player. Neither an audio CD player, nor a computer
CD-ROM drive can access the information on discs in this
format. Also called video CD. Its abbreviation is CDV.
CD video player Abbreviation of compact disc video player.
A device which can read the information stored on a CD
video.
CO-WO Abbreviation of compact disc-write once. A CO-
ROM technology that allows a CD to be recorded once, util-
izing a CD recorder. A CD-ROM player is used to recover
the recorded information.
CO write once Same as CD-WOo
CD writer Same as CD recorder (I ).
CO+G Same as CD-G.
CODA Same as CD audio.
COOl Abbreviation of Copper Distributed Data Interface.
COE Abbreviation of Common Desktop Environment.
CDIP Same as ceramic dual in-line package.
CDMA Abbreviation of code-division multiple access. A
spread-spectrum digital cellular telephone technology in
which multiple simultaneous users share the available chan-
nels. Instead of slicing the available bandwidth into separate
channels differentiated by frequency, this technology uses
the entire radio-frequency spectrum available and distin-
guishes users by assigning a unique digital code. COMA
offers various benefits, such as increased call capacity, en-
hanced privacy, and improved coverage characteristics.
CDMA-l Same as cdmaOne.
CDMA-2000 Same as CDMA2000.
CDMA One Same as cdmaOne.
COMAI Same as cdmaOne.
cdma2000 Same as CDMA2000.
CDMA2000 COMA used in third-generation mobile wireless
technology. CDMA2000 supports voice, plus data transmis-
sion speeds exceeding 2 MHz. Also spelled CDMA-2000.
CDMA2000 1x A version of first phase CDMA2000, such as
COMA2000 lxEV.
COMA2000 1xEV A version of first phase CDMA2000,
offering voice plus data transmission speeds of up to 2.4
MHz. Its abbreviation is lxEV.
CDMA2000 1xRTT A version of first phase CDMA2000,
offering voice plus data transmission speeds of up to 144
Kbps. Its abbreviation is lxRTT.
cdmaOne COMA used in second-generation mobile wireless
technology. Also spelled COMA One. Its abbreviation is
COMA-I.
CDPD
CDPD Abbreviation of cellular digital packet data.
CDRAM Abbreviation of cached DRAM. A type of DRAM
which incorporates a small amount of SRAM used as a
cache. Also called EDRAM.
CDROM Same as CD-ROM.
CDROM disc Same as CD-ROM disc.
CDROM drive Same as CD-ROM drive.
CDROM player Same as CD-ROM player.
COV 1. Same as CO video. 2. Abbreviation of compressed
digital video.
Ce Chemical symbol for cerium.
CED tone Abbreviation of called tone. A 2100 Hz tone a
receiving fax emits in response to a CNG tone emitted by a
calling fax terminal.
ceiling The upper limit of something. For instance, the
maximum output, or the maximum voltage.
celerity The speed at which a wave propagates through a
given medium. It is the speed at which given points within
it, such as crests and troughs, travel. In a vacuum it is equal
to the product of the frequency and wavelength. In a disper-
sive medium the celerity of electromagnetic waves varies as
a function of the frequency, while in a non-dispersive me-
dium the celerity is independent of the frequency. Also
called wave celerity, wave speed, wave celerity, and
propagation speed.
Celeron A popular family of CPU chips.
cell 1. A single unit which converts chemical, thermal, nu-
clear, or solar energy into electrical energy. For example, a
solar cell, or a voltaic cell. Also called electric cell, or en-
ergy cell. 2. A cell (1) within a battery. Cell and battery
are commonly used interchangeably, "although a battery con-
sists of more than one cell. 3. In computers, an elementary
unit of storage, such as a binary cell. 4. A unit where num-
bers, data, or formulas may be placed in a spreadsheet. It is
formed by the intersection of a column and a row. 5. A
small compartment or cavity. 6. In cellular telephony, a
geographical area with coverage provided by a cell site.
7. In ATM communications, a unit of transmission consist-
ing of 53 bytes, of which 48 are payload and 5 are overhead.
8. In communications, a unit of transmission consisting of a
fixed size or length.
cell capacity The total amount of charge that can be with-
drawn from a fully charged cell (2) under specified condi-
tions. Usually expressed in ampere-hours.
cell constant In an electrolytic cell, the surface area of the
electrodes, divided by the distance between them. Used to
calculate the resistance of the cell.
cell loss priority Its abbreviation is CLP. An ATM commu-
nications header bit which indicates the priority of an ATM
cell. If the CLP is 0, then the cell is guaranteed delivery. If
the CLP is I, then the cell may be dropped if network con-
gestion exceeds a certain level.
cell loss ratio An ATM quality of service parameter. It con-
sists of the ratio of lost cells to the total transmitted cells. Its
abbreviation is CLR.
cell phone Same as cellular telephone.
cell potential The electromotive force developed in an elec-
trolytic cell.
cell rate The rate at which cells (7) are transmitted over an
ATM circuit.
cell relay A communications protocol in which small, fixed
length packets, or cells, are utilized to transmit data. Used,
for instance, in ATM communications.
cell site A site which has the necessary transmission and
reception equipment to provide cellular phone coverage in a
given geographical area. All incoming and outgoing calls
within this zone are handled by this station. The area served
102 cellular telephone
by a given cell site is called a cell (6). Also called base sta-
tion (3).
cell switch In a communications network, a device which
operates on fixed-length cells to provide connections be-
tween nodes. Used, for instance in ATM communications.
cell switching 1. In communications networks, the use of cell
switches to transfer fixed-length cells. 2. In cellular com-
munications, the transfer of the signal of a mobile unit from
one cell site to another, so that the best available signal is
always used.
cell telephone Same as cellular telephone.
cell-type tube A gas-filled RF switching tube operated lin an
external resonant circuit.
cell voltage In an electrolytic cell, the total voltage measured
between the anode and the cathode during electrolysis.
cellphone Same as cellular telephone.
cellular 1. Pertaining to a cell. 2. Pertaining to cellular
communications.
cellular automata The creation of models utilizing standard-
ized parallel structures, or cells, which can assume a finite
number of states. The output of each cell is dependent on
the state of all the other cells, and the state of all cells is up-
dated simultaneously. Cellular automata can assist in the
understanding and design of large-scale parallel systems. Its
abbreviation is CA.
cellular communications A telecommunications system in
which mobile, usually portable, telephones are linked to a
land telephone network via microwave radio-frequency sig-
nals. Individual cell sites provide coverage to a limited area,
called a cell, while networks of cell sites provide coverage
to large geographical areas. At any given point within the
cellular network, the system decides which cell site can pro-
vide the best signal to a mobile unit, and as the unit moves,
the signal is transferred to the next cell site with the best
signal. Also called by various other terms, including cellu-
lar mobile telephone system, cellular mobile communica-
tions, cellular mobile telecommunications, cellular te-
lephony, and mobile cellular communications.
cellular digital packet data A data-packet transfer technol-
ogy which utilizes a cellular telephone network. Data can
be sent at speeds up to 19.2 kbps utilizing any available
pauses in voice conversations, thereby not occupying addi-
tional voice channels. Its abbreviation is COPA.
cellular mobile 1. Same as cellular communications.
2. Same as cellular telephone (1).
cellular mobile communications Same as cellular commu-
nications.
cellular mobile radio 1. Same as cellular communications.
2. Same as cellular telephone (1).
cellular mobile radio telephone Same as cellular telephone.
cellular mobile telecommunications Same as cellular com-
munications.
cellular mobile telephone Same as cellular telephone.
cellular mobile telephone system Same as cellular commu-
nications.
cellular mobile telephony Same as cellular communica-
tions.
cellular network A network consisting of one or more cell
sites which enable cellular communications.
cellular phone Same as cellular telephone.
cellular phone system Same as cellular communications.
cellular radio Same as cellular telephone.
cellular telephone Also called by various other terms, includ-
ing cellular phone, cellular mobile, cell phone, and cellu-
lar mobile radio. 1. A mobile telephone used for cellular
communications. 2. Same as cellular communications.
cellular telephone system 103
cellular telephone system Same as cellular communica-
tions.
cellular telephony Same as cellular communications.
cellulose acetate A tough and flexible thermoplastic material
made from cellulose, which is the main constituent of the
walls of the cells of plants. It occurs in white flakes or pow-
der, and also features high-impact strength and ease offabri-
cation.
cellulose acetate tllm A non-deforming film which is durable,
transparent, hygienic, air-proof, dust-proof, and oil-proof. It
is used in the preparation of magnetic tapes and photo-
graphic films, among others. Also called acetate film.
cellulose acetate resin A resin formed by the polymerization
of cellulose acetate.
cellulose acetate tape Recording tape that has a magnetic
oxide layer over a cellulose acetate film. Also called ace-
tate tape.
CELP Abbreviation of Code-Excited Linear Predictive.
CELP algorithm Abbreviation of Code-Excited Linear
Predictive algorithm.
CELP coding Abbreviation of Code-Excited Linear Predic-
tive coding.
CELP compression Abbreviation of Code-Excited Linear
Predictive compression.
Celsius degree The unit of temperature interval used in the
Celsius temperature scale. Formerly called centigrade
degree, or degree centigrade. Its symbol is C.
Celsius scale Same as Celsius temperature scale.
Celsius temperature scale A temperature scale which is
based on the freezing and boiling points of water, under
stated conditions, assigning values of 0 and 100 degrees
Celsius respectively. Its unit of temperature increment is the
degree Celsius, or C. An increment of one degree Celsius
equals an increment of one degree Kelvin. Absolute zero is
approximately -273.15 C. Also called Celsius scale. For-
merly called centigrade temperature scale.
censorware Software intended to prevent viewing or interact-
ing with Web sites whose content, such as political perspec-
tives or pornography, is deemed censurable. Censorware
may block access to entire Web sites and/or specific content.
cent In acoustics, a unit equal to 1/1200 of an octave, or 1/100
of a semitone, Utilized to specify the ratio in frequency be-
tween two tones.
center channell. In a surround-sound audio system, a chan-
nel which is situated in front of the listener, and between the
left and right channels. It usually carries dialogue and mu-
sic, and may help enhance special effects. 2. A phantom
channel situated between the left and right channels.
center conductor In a concentric two-conductor line, such as
a coaxial cable, the conductor which is on the inside. This
conductor usually carries the signal, while the outer conduc-
tor serves as a shield. A dielectric separates the two conduc-
tors. Also called inner conductor.
center-fed antenna An antenna whose transmission line is
connected to the center of its radiators. Dipole antennas and
cage antennas are examples.
center feed The connection of the transmission line of an
antenna to the center of its radiators.
center frequency 1. Same as carrier frequency (2). 2. The
frequency which equally divides a band of frequencies.
Also called mid-frequency (1). 3. In a filter, the median of
the frequencies at which the insertion loss is a specified
amount, such as 3 decibels.
center loading In an antenna, the placement of a loading coil
near the halfway point between the feed point and the ends
of the radiating elements. This is done to alter the resonant
frequency of the antenna.
central office code
center loudspeaker Same as center speaker.
center speaker The speaker utilized for the output of a center
channel (1). Also called center loudspeaker.
center tap A terminal located at the electrical midpoint of an
electrical component, such as a resistor or winding. Its ab-
breviation is CT.
center-tapped Having a center tap.
center-tapped rectifier A rectifier with a central tap.
center-tapped resistor A resistor with a central tap.
center-tapped winding A winding with a central tap.
center-zero meter A meter whose zero point is at the center
of the indicating scale. May be used, for instance, in certain
voltmeters or ammeters.
centering 1. The seeking of a point, value, or state which is at
the center of all possible points, values, or states. 2. The use
of a centering control.
centering control In a CRT, one of two controls used to
center the image on the screen. One control adjusts the im-
age horizontally, and the other vertically.
centi- A prefix denoting one hundredth, or 0.01. For example,
centimeter or centigram. It has two abbreviations, which are
c, and c-.
centigrade degree The unit of temperature interval used in
the centigrade temperature scale. Since the term centi-
grade has been replaced by the term Celsius, this unit of
temperature interval is now called Celsius degree. Its sym-
bol is C.
centigrade scale Same as centigrade temperature scale.
centigrade temperature scale The former name of the Cel-
sius temperature scale. Also called centigrade scale.
centimeter A unit of distance equal to 0.0 I meter. It is the
unit of distance in the cgs system. Its abbreviation is em.
centimeter-gram-second electromagnetic system A system
of electromagnetic units within the centimeter-gram-
second system of units. Units in this system have an ab-
prefix, as in abvolt or abampere. Its abbreviation is cgs
electromagnetic system.
centimeter-gram-second electrostatic system A system of
electrostatic units within the centimeter-gram-second sys-
tem of units. Units in this system have a stat- prefix, as in
statvolt or statampere. Its abbreviation is cgs electrostatic
system.
centimeter-gram-second system An obsolescent measuring
system in which the fundamental units for expressing dis-
tance, mass, and time are the centimeter, gram, and second
respectively. Its abbreviation is cgs system.
centimeter-gram-second unit A unit within the centimeter-
gram-second system.
centimetric waves Electromagnetic waves whose wave-
lengths are between 1 and 10 centimeters, corresponding to
frequencies of between 30 and 3 GHz, respectively. This
interval represents the super-high frequency band.
centipoise A measure of dynamic viscosity equal to 0.01
poise. Its symbol is cPo
central battery In wire telephony, a common battery which
located at a central office.
central office A structure which houses one or more tele-
phone switching systems. At this location, customer lines
terminate and are interconnected with each other, in addition
to being connected to trunks, which may also terminate
there. A typical central office handles about 10,000 sub-
scribers, each with the same area code plus first three digits
of the 10 digit telephone numbers. Its abbreviation is CO.
Also called telephone central office, exchange (1), local
central office, or telephone exchange.
central office code The prefix which identifies a central of-
fice. In the NPA-NXX-XXXX ten-digit telephone number
central office prefix
format, it is the NXX portion, where N can be any digit be-
tween 2 and 9, and X can be any digit between 0 and 9. A
single central office may serve more than one central office
code. Also called central office prefix, NXX code, or pre-
fix (1).
central office prefix Same as central office code.
central office trunk A communications path between central
offices, or between a central office and a PBX.
central-processing unit Same as CPU.
central-processing unit bound Same as CPU-bound.
central-processing unit cache Same as CPU cache.
central-processing unit chip Same as CPU chip.
central-processing unit cooler Same as CPU cooler.
central-processing unit cycle Same as CPU cycle.
central-processing unit speed Same as CPU speed.
central-processing unit time Same as CPU time.
central processor 1. Same as CPU (1). 2. Same as CPU (2).
centralized data processing Same as centralized process-
ing.
centralized network A communications network in which all
nodes connect to a main computer, which provides resources
such as processing power and control. An example is a star
network.
centralized processing Processing which is performed by one
or more computers which are situated at a single location.
This contrasts with decentralized processing, where multi-
ple locations are used. Also called centralized data proc-
essing.
centrifugal switch A switch actuated by centrifugal force,
that is, outward from the center of rotation. Used, for in-
stance, in some induction motors for disconnection of the
starting winding once a predetermined speed is attained.
Centronics interface Same as Centronics parallel interface.
Centronics parallel interface A standard parallel interface
for connection of peripherals, such as printers, to a com-
puter. Also called Centronics interface.
Centronics parallel port A computer parallel port utilizing a
Centronics parallel interface.
centum call second A time unit used for measuring telephone
communications traffic. One centum call second equals 100
seconds of conversation. 36 centum call seconds equal I
call hour. Its abbreviation is CCS.
ceramal Acronym for ceramic-metal. Same as cerametal.
ceramet Acronym for ceramic-metal. Same as cerametal.
cerametal Abbreviation of ceramic-metal. A mixture of
ceramic and metallic components to obtain a material which
combines properties of both. For example, an electric ele-
ment may combine the dielectric characteristics of a ceramic
such as porcelain, with the conductive qualities of a metal
such as chromium. Used, for instance, in film resistors. Its
acronyms are ceramal, ceramet, and cermet. Also called
metal-ceramic.
ceramic A material, such as porcelain or glass, made through
the heating of certain nonmetallic mineral substances, such
as silicon dioxide or clay. Its applications in electronics in-
clude its use in capacitors and les, or as a dielectric. Also
called ceramic material.
Ceramic Ban Grid Array A surface-mount ceramic chip
package that utilizes tiny balls of solder to attach its leads to
a printed-circuit board. Ball Grid Arrays feature low induc-
tion, compact size, and a high lead count in a small area. Its
abbreviation is CBGA.
ceramic capacitor A capacitor in which the dielectric is a
ceramic material, such as barium titanate. The properties of
such capacitors are determined by the specific ceramic used.
104 cerium
ceramic cartridge A cartridge, used in microphones or pick-
ups, with a piezoelectric ceramic material utilized as its
transducer.
ceramic chip package Same as ceramic package.
ceramic dielectric A ceramic material, such as barium titan-
ate, used as a dielectric.
ceramic DIP Same as ceramic dual in-line package.
ceramic dual in-line package A dual in-line package made of
ceramic, as opposed, for instance, to plastic. Its abbrevia-
tion is ceramic DIP, CerDIP, or CDIP.
ceramic filter A bandpass filter utilizing a piezoelectric ce-
ramic material as the resonating element.
ceramic insulator An insulator composed of a ceramic mate-
rial, such as porcelain.
ceramic leadless chip carrier A ceramic package which is
hermetically sealed, and which instead of leads consisting of
metal prongs or wires, has metallic contacts called castella-
tions, which are flush with the package or recessed. The
contacts are usually on all four sides of the package, al-
though they may be located elsewhere. Its abbreviation is
CLCC. Also called leadless chip carrier, or lead less ce-
ramic chip carrier.
ceramic magnet A permanent magnet made from mixing,
pressing, then heating ferromagnetic and ceramic powders.
ceramic material Same as ceramic.
ceramic-metal Same as cerametal.
ceramic microphone A microphone utilizing a ceramic
cartridge as its transducer.
ceramic package A chip package made of ceramic, as op-
posed, for instance, to plastic. Also called ceramic chip
package.
ceramic PGA Abbreviation of ceramic pin grid array.
ceramic pickup A pickup utilizing a ceramic cartridge as its
transducer.
ceramic pin grid array A ceramic package capable of
providing up to several hundred pins, all located on its
underside. Used, for instance, to package computer chips.
The design seeks to minimize the distance signals must
travel from the chip to each designated pin. Its abbreviation
is CPGA, or ceramic PGA.
ceramic quad Oat-pack A ceramic surface-mount chip in the
form of a square, which provides leads on all four sides.
Such a chip affords a high lead count in a small area. Its ab-
breviation is CQFP. Also spelled ceramic quad oatpack.
Also called ceramic quad Oat-package.
ceramic quad Oat-package Same as ceramic quad nat-
pack.
ceramic quad flatpaek Same as ceramic quad Oat-pack.
ceramic resistor A resistor with a ceramic material serving as
its covering.
ceramic transducer A transducer, such as a pickup or micro-
phone, which utilizes a ceramic material, such as a piezo-
electric ceramic.
ceramic tube An electron tube with an envelope composed of
a ceramic material. This enables the tube to have very high
operating temperatures.
CerDIP Same as ceramic dual in-line package.
CERDIP Same as ceramic dual in-line package.
Cerenkov counter Same as Cherenkov counter.
Cerenkov radiation Same as Cherenkov radiation.
ceresin A refined form of ozokerite which is used as an elec-
trical insulator. Also called ceresin wax.
ceresin wax Same as ceresin.
cerium An iron-gray, ductile, and highly reactive metal whose
atomic number is 58. It has about 30 known isotopes, of
cermet
which 3 are stable. Among its applications in electronics are
its use as a getter in vacuum tubes, and as a phosphor. Its
chemical symbol is Ceo
cermet Acronym for ceramic-metal. Same as cerametal,
CERN Abbreviation of Conseil Europeen pourla Recherche
Nucleaire, which is French for European Organization for
Nuclear Research. An international organization dedicated
to the study of particle physics. The CERN laboratory, lo-
cated outside of Geneva, Switzerland, features some of the
world's most advanced equipment, including powerful ac-
celerators, which help enable their complex scientific re-
search.
CERT Acronym for Computer Emergency Response
Team.
certificate authority An organization which verifies the
identities of entities such as individuals and corporations, so
as to issue unique digital certificates which confirm their
identity. A certificate authority can serve as a trusted third
party in transactions where security and electronic com-
merce are involved. Its abbreviation is CA. Also called
certification authority.
certification 1. An attestation of competency in a given area
of expertise, such as networking devices, computer security,
or computer operating systems. 2. The process involved in
obtaining certification (1). 3. An attestation that a given
hardware or software product fulfills certain requirements,
such as providing a given degree of security, or compatibil-
ity with standards.
certification authority Same as certificate authority.
cesium A soft, silvery-white ductile metal which becomes a
liquid above 28C, and whose atomic number is 55. It is
extremely reactive, and has about 35 known isotopes, of
which one is stable. It is strongly photoelectric, and is the
most electropositive chemical element after francium. Some
of its applications in electronics include its use in photocells,
as a getter in vacuum tubes, and in cesium clocks. Its
chemical symbol is Cs.
cesium atomic clock Same as cesium clock.
cesium atomic frequency standard A frequency standard
based on the natural resonance frequency of cesium atoms.
This standard is used, for instance, in atomic clocks.
cesium beam A stream of cesium atoms. Useful, for instance
as a frequency standard, and in atomic clocks.
cesium-beam atomic clock Same as cesium clock.
cesium-beam frequency standard Same as cesium fre-
quency standard.
cesium-beam resonance Resonance exhibited by a stream of
cesium atoms. Such resonance is usually induced by mi-
crowaves.
cesium bromide A colorless crystalline powder whose
chemical formula is CsBr. Used in fluorescent screens and
in spectrometers.
cesium chloride Colorless crystals whose chemical formula is
CsCI. Used in fluorescent screens and in radio tubes.
cesium clock A clock whose accuracy is governed by the
natural resonance frequency of cesium atoms. This fre-
quency is 9,192,631,770 cycles per second, and currently,
the time unit second is defined as this number of oscilla-
tions. Also called cesium atomic clock, or cesium-beam
atomic clock.
cesium frequency standard A frequency standard based on
the natural resonance frequency of cesium atoms. This
standard is used, for instance, in atomic clocks. AIso called
cesium-beam frequency standard.
cesium hydroxide A white or yellowish crystalline mass
whose chemical formula is CsOH. Used as an electrolyte in
storage batteries.
105 chalcopyrite
cesium iodide A colorless crystalline powder whose chemical
formula is CsI. Used in fluorescent screens and in infrared
spectroscopy.
cesium phototube A phototube whose cathode is coated with
cesium.
cesium-vapor lamp A low-voltage arc lamp in which light is
produced by the passage of current between electrodes sur-
rounded by ionized cesium vapor.
Cf Chemical symbol for californium.
CF card Abbreviation of CompactFlash card.
CG Abbreviation of computer graphics.
CGI 1. Abbreviation of Common Gateway Interface.
2. Abbreviation of Computer Graphics Interface.
cgi-bin A Web-server directory where COl programs or script
are stored.
CGI program Abbreviation of Common Gateway Interface
program.
CGI script Abbreviation of Common Gateway Interface
script.
CGM Abbreviation of Computer Graphics Metafile.
CGS Same as cgs.
cgs Abbreviation of centimeter-gram-second.
cgs electromagnetic system Abbreviation of centimeter-
gram-second electromagnetic system.
cgs electrostatic system Abbreviation of centimeter-gram-
second electrostatic system.
cgs system Abbreviation of centimeter-gram-second system.
cgs unit Abbreviation of centimeter-gram-second unit.
chain 1. A series of components, devices, or systems, which
are linked, associated, or meant to function simultaneously.
2. A network of stations connected in a manner that they op-
erate as a group. For instance, a radio network, TV network,
radar network, or the like. Also called network (3).
chain broadcasting A network of stations, such as those of a
radio or TV network, connected in a manner that they
broadcast as a group.
chain decay The transformation of a nuclide into another
nuclide through radioactive decay, followed by further trans-
formations until a stable, or nonradioactive, nuclide results.
In such a series, the first member is called the parent, and
the last is the end product. For instance, the chemical ele-
ment uranium undergoes a series of radioactive decay steps
which eventually ends with a stable isotope of lead. Also
called chain disintegration, series decay, series disinte-
gration, or radioactive chain decay.
chain disintegration Same as chain decay.
chain reaction 1. A series of events related in a manner that
one initiates or influences the next. 2. A reaction which
once initiated, continues without additional external influence,
usually leading to a great expenditure of energy. 3. The bom-
bardment of neutrons upon an unstable nucleus, such as that
of uranium, which initiates a sequence of nuclear fissions
whose products include other elements, a substantial amount
of energy, and more neutrons, which further propagate the
reaction. Also called nuclear chain reaction.
chained list In data management, a collection of items ar-
ranged in a manner that each item contains the address of
the next item in sequence. Also called linked list.
chaining 1. The forming of a chain. 2. In computers, the
linking of records, programs, units, or the like, so that the
function of each item depends on the rest of the group. For
instance, the linking of program statements in a manner that
each statement after the first depends on the previous state-
ment.
chalcopyrite A mineral whose structure is CuFeS2' Used in
semiconductors.
Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol 106
Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol An authen-
tication method used by Internet providers, in which the user
identification and password are encrypted before being
transmitted for logging-on. This provides a higher degree of
security than if a password is sent in text format. Its acro-
nym is CHAP.
challenge-response Same as challenge-response authentica-
tion.
challenge-response authentication In communication net-
works, an authentication method in which the user is
prompted, or challenged, to send unique information, or a
response, which establishes the user's identity. Also called
challenge-response.
chamber An enclosed section, compartment, space, or room.
Examples include anechoic, resonant, and ion chambers.
change file A file containing change records. Also called
transaction file.
change management The process of tracking changes, such
as updates, made to computer software or hardware projects,
such as those under development.
change record In a computer database, a record which
changes information in the corresponding master file. Also
called transaction record.
channell. A path along which information is transmitted.
For instance, a fiber-optic link carrying data between nodes
of a network, or a bus between computer devices. Also
called transmission channel. 2. Same as circuit (3). 3. A
frequency, or band of frequencies, assigned to a particular
carrier or for a specific purpose. For example, the band of
radio frequencies assigned to a TV broadcast station. Also
called frequency channel. 4. In an audio component, a des-
ignated signal path. For instance, a surround-sound receiver
may provide, for instance, a left front channel, a left rear
channel, a center channel, a right front channel, a right rear
channel, and that which drives a subwoofer. 5. In a field-
effect transistor, the electrical path between the source and
the drain.
channel balance In sound recording or reproduction, an equi-
librium between the volume intensities of the channels.
channel bank A multiplexer which modulates a group of
channels into a higher frequency channel, and vice versa.
Used, for instance, in a telephone central office.
channel bonding Also called line bonding. 1. The combin-
ing of two telephone lines to form a single communications
channel in which the transmission speed is doubled. Two
modems are required in order to use this technology. For
example, two 56 kilobits per second modems bonded in this
manner provide a 112 kilobits per second connection. Also
called modem bonding. 2. The combining of two commu-
nications lines to form a single communications channel in
which the transmission speed is doubled.
channel capacity The maximum rate of information which
can be accommodated by a channel, per unit time. May be
expressed, for instance, in some multiple of bits per second.
channel crosstalk Unwanted coupling occurring between two
communication channels. It is usually measured at specific
points in each circuit, under specified conditions. Generally
expressed in decibels.
channel designator A designator, such as a name or number,
which serves to identify a given communications channel.
channel effect In a bipolar junction transistor, a current leak-
age over the surface path between the collector and emitter.
channel frequency The frequency or band of frequencies of a
communications channel.
channel reliability The proportion of time a communications
channel satisfies a given set of requirements, such as avail-
ability, speed, and maximum bit-error rate. Usually ex-
pressed as a percentage
character-oriented protocol
channel reversal In a stereo audio component, the switching
of the signals of the left and right channels.
channel selector A device, such as a switch, which permits
selection of the desired channel from the available choices.
channel separation 1. The spacing between communication
channels which are immediately next to each other in fre-
quency. For instance, that between adjacent FM broadcast
stations. Also called channel spacing. 2. In a stereo audio
component, the extent to which the information from one
channel is absent from the other. Usually expressed in deci-
bels. Also called separation (4).
channel service unit Its abbreviation is CSU. A device that
terminates an external digital circuit, such as TI, at the
premises of a customer. It serves to condition the signal,
provide diagnostics, and allow for remote testing. Usually
used in conjunction with a data service unit.
channel service unit/data service unit A device which com-
bines a channel service unit and a data service unit. The
channel service unit terminates an external digital circuit,
such as TI, at the premises of a customer, while the data
service unit converts data transmitted or received through
the external digital circuit into the proper format. Its abbre-
viation is CSUIDSU. Also cal1ed channel service
unit/digital service unit.
channel service unit/digital service unit Same as channel
service unit/data service unit.
channel spacing Same as channel separation (1).
channel termination The equipment necessary to provide a
connection point between communications channels. Used,
for instance, in central offices.
channeling A form of multiplex transmission in which multi-
ple carriers are used to separate the transmitted signals.
channelizing The subdivision of a wideband transmission
facility to form multiple narrowband channels.
CHAP Acronym for Challenge Handshake Authentication
Protocol.
character A letter, number, punctuation mark, control code,
or other symbol that occupies one byte of computer mem-
ory. An example is an ASCII character.
character cell A block of pixels or dots used to form a single
character on a display screen or printer. The size of the
block may vary, along with the blank space surrounding
each character, depending on the screen resolution, the font,
and other factors.
character code A digital code representing a character within
a set, such as ASCII. This code includes information such
as whether a letter is uppercase or lowercase.
character data Data presented in characters. This may in-
clude letters, numbers, punctuation marks, symbols, and so
on.
character density The maximum number of characters that
can be stored per unit length, or per unit area.
character device 1. A device, such as keyboard, which trans-
fers one byte at a time. This contrasts with a block device,
which operates on blocks of data. 2. A video display which
can display alphanumeric characters, but not graphics.
character field 1. A field which holds alphanumeric charac-
ters. 2. A field which may hold alphanumeric characters.
character generator Software or hardware that converts a
given character code into the pixel patterns seen on the
computer screen.
character mode A computer screen mode in which alphanu-
meric characters can be displayed, but not graphics. Also
called text mode.
character-oriented protocol A communications protocol
which uses bytes to represent control codes. This contrasts
with a bit-oriented protocol, in which control codes are
character printer 107
represented by bits. Between the two, bit-oriented is more
efficient and reliable. Also called byte-oriented protocol.
character printer 1. A printer which prints a single character
at a time. Examples include daisy-wheel printers and dot-
matrix printers. Also called serial printer (1). 2. A printer
that can print alphanumeric characters, punctuation marks,
and some special symbols, but not graphics.
character reader A device which scans printed or written
characters, and utilizes character recognition to identify
them. Such scanning is usually optical or magnetic.
character recognition The ability of a computer or other
device to identify scanned printed or written characters, and
to convert this information into a digital code suitable for
further processing. An example is a Magnetic-Ink Character
Recognition system used to identify bank checks.
character set A defined list of letters, numbers, punctuation
marks, control codes, and other symbols which computer
hardware and/or software recognizes as forming a unique
group. An example is the ASCII character set.
character string A sequence of characters which is treated as
a unit.
character terminal A computer screen which can display
alphanumeric characters, but not graphics.
characteristic 1. A measurable feature that helps describe and
distinguish components, circuits, devices, systems, materi-
als, and so on. 2. In a floating-point number, the second
part, which specifies power to which the base is raised. For
example, in 1.234 x 1056 , the characteristic is 56. The first
part, or 1.234, is the mantissa (2). 3. The integer portion of
a logarithm. The decimal part is the mantissa (1). For ex-
ample, if a logarithm of a given number equals 1.2345, the
characteristic is 1, while .2345 is the mantissa. 4. Same as
characteristic curve.
characteristic curve A curve which describes the relationship
between two varying quantities. For instance, the correla-
tion between electrode current and electrode voltage. Also
called characteristic (4).
characteristic distortion Distortion of a signal resulting from
the effects of previously transmitted signals.
characteristic frequency A frequency, such as a carrier fre-
quency, which helps identify a particular transmission.
characteristic impedance The impedance of a circuit, which
when connected to the output terminals of a uniform trans-
mission line, makes the line appear infinitely long. Under
these conditions, the transmission line has no standing
waves, and the ratio of voltage to current at any given fre-
quency is the same at any point of the line. Also caIled
surge impedance. Its symbol is Zoo
characteristic overflow The circumstance in which the char-
acteristic (2) exceeds the maximum positive value that can
be handled by a computer program or hardware. It results in
an error condition.
characteristic underflow The circumstance in which the
characteristic (2) exceeds the maximum negative value that
can be handled by a computer program or hardware. It re-
sults in an error condition.
characters per inch The number of characters which fit on a
medium, such as paper or magnetic tape, per inch. Its ab-
breviation is cpi, or CPl.
characters per second Its abbreviation is cps or CPS. 1. The
number of characters per second that a non-laser printer can
print. The speed of laser printers is usually measured in
pages per minute. 2. A measure of the maximum speed at
which data can travel between devices, or over a communi-
cations channel. For instance, it can describe the rate at
which a disk drive can transfer data. 3. The rate at which
data actually travels between devices, or over a communica-
tions channel.
charge transfer
charge 1. A basic property of subatomic particles, atoms,
molecules, and the antimatter counterparts of each of these.
A charge may be negative, positive, or there may be no
charge. The net charge of a body is the sum of the charges
of all its constituents. For instance, a cation has a net defi-
ciency of electrons, so its charge is positive. Each electric
charge, whether positive or negative, is equal to 1.6022 x 10
19 coulomb, the charge of an electron, or a whole number
multiple of it. Also called electric charge (1), or electro-
static charge (1). Its symbol is Q. 2. The electrical energy
stored in an insulated body such as a storage battery or ca-
pacitor. Usually expressed in coulombs. Also called elec-
tric charge (2), or electrostatic charge (2). 3. The direct-
ing of electrical energy into an insulated body which can
store this energy, such as a storage battery or capacitor.
4. The conversion of electrical energy into chemical energy
within a battery or cell.
charge carrier A mobile electron, hole, or ion which trans-
ports a charge through a semiconductor. Also called carrier
(2).
charge-carrier concentration In a semiconductor material,
the number of charge carriers per unit volume. May be ex-
pressed for instance, as the number of carriers per cubic cen-
timeter. Also called charge-carrier density, carrier con-
centration., or carrier density.
charge-carrier density Same as charge-carrier concentra-
tion.
charge conservation Same as conservation of charge.
charge-coupled device Same as ceo.
charge-coupled device array Same as CCO array.
charge-coupled device camera Same as CCO camera.
charge-coupled device detector Same as CCO detector.
charge-coupled device image sensor Same as CCO image
sensor.
charge-coupled device imaging Same as CCO imaging.
charge-coupled device memory Same as CCD memory.
charge-coupled device scanner Same as CCD scanner.
charge-coupled device sensor Same as CCO sensor.
charge-coupled device spectrometer Same as CCO spec-
trometer.
charge-coupled device telescope Same as CCD telescope.
charge-coupled device TV camera Same as CCD TV cam-
era.
charge-coupled device video camera Same as CCO video
camera.
charge density 1. The electric charge per unit area. Usually
expressed in coulombs per square meter. Its symbol is u.
Also called surface charge density. 2. The electric charge
per unit volume. Usually expressed in coulombs per cubic
meter. Its symbol is p. Also called volume charge density.
3. The electric charge per unit length of a line or curve.
Usually expressed in coulombs per meter. Its symbol is A.
Also called linear charge density.
charge-mass ratio The ratio of the electric charge of a parti-
cle to its mass. May be expressed, for instance, in coulombs
per kilogram.
charge retention The holding of a charge by a cell, battery, or
capacitor.
charge storage 1. The storage of an electric charge. 2. Same
as carrier storage.
charge-storage tube A tube which stores information on its
surface in the form of electric charges.
charge transfer The transfer of an electric charge from one
entity to another, or from one location to another within the
same entity. Seen, for instance, in a charge-coupled device.
charge-transfer device 108
charge-transfer device A semiconductor device, such as a
charge-coupled device, in which electric charges are trans-
ferred from one location to the next. Its abbreviation is
CTD.
charged particle A particle or antiparticle having either a
positive charge or a negative charge. Such a charge always
has a magnitude of 1. An electron, for instance, has a nega-
tive charge, or -1 charge. A proton has a +1 charge, a posi-
tron a +1 charge, and so on.
charger A device which serves to charge rechargeable batter-
ies. A rectifier, for instance, may be used for this. Also
called battery charger.
charging The process of storing electric current in a storage
battery, storage cell, or capacitor.
charging current The current that is used for charging.
charging rate The rate at which charging takes place. May
be expressed, for instance, in amperes or microamperes.
chart 1. A visual representation of information, or of relation-
ships between quantities or sets of data. For example, a pie
chart. Also called graph (1). 2. A sheet of paper, or other
appropriate material, ruled and graduated for use by a re-
cording instrument. 3. A map utilized to aid navigation.
chassis 1. The supporting frame upon which a structure is
built. 2. A supporting frame upon which electrical compo-
nents, such as circuit boards or power supplies, are mounted.
Such a chassis is usually made of metal and connected to
ground.
chassis ground A ground connection made between a com-
ponent and the chassis it is mounted upon.
chat A real-time written and/or verbal conversation between
two or more individuals via a network such as the Internet.
Also called real-time chat.
chat application Same as chat program.
chat bot Same as chatbot.
chat program Any program utilized for chats, especially
over the Internet. An example is an instant messaging pro-
gram. Also called chat application.
chat robot Same as chatbot.
chat room 1. A virtual room where chats take place. 2. A
specific chat room (1), such as that dealing with a given
topic.
chatbot Abbreviation of chat robot. A program that con-
verses with users in settings such as chat rooms or online in-
teractive games. Depending on the specific user, the fact
that the other participant in such a chat is a program may go
undetected indefinitely. Also spelled chat bot. Also called
chatterbot.
chatter 1. Rapid and repetitive vibrations of an electrome-
chanical device, such as an electric motor. 2. Same as con-
tact chatter.
chatterbot Same as chatbot.
cheapernet An Ethernet standard using a coaxial cable which
is about 0.5 centimeter in diameter, as opposed to ThickNet
whose cabling is about one centimeter in diameter. Also
called ThinNet, ThinWire, Thin Ethernet, or 10Base2.
Chebyshev filter A filter characterized by minimal passband
ripple and a steep cutoff response. Used, for instance, in au-
dio applications. Also spelled Tschebyscheff filter.
check 1. The verifying or testing of the accuracy, function,
indications, or results of a component, device, instrument,
system, or process. 2. A standard utilized for testing and/or
verifying a component, device, instrument, system, or proc-
ess. 3. A sudden stoppage or interruption of an action or
process.
check bit A bit which by itself, or as part of a set, is used for
error detection. For instance, it may be added to a data
chemical compound
transmission for the purpose of detecting errors in transmis-
sion or reception. An example is a parity bit.
check box In a aUI, a box utilized to select or deselect a
given choice, the user doing so by clicking the mouse within
it. Such a box may be used, for instance, to enable or dis-
able a given feature of an Internet browser. Also spelled
checkbox.
check character A character which by itself, or as part of a
set, is used for error detection. For instance, it may be
added to a data transmission for the purpose of detecting er-
rors in transmission or reception.
check digit A numeric digit which is added to a set of digits
for error detection. When a given set of digits, such as an
account number, is entered into a computer, a check digit is
calculated and incorporated into it. When the number is
stored, or subsequently accessed, the check digit is recom-
puted and compared to the original check digit.
check indicator An indicator, such as a light, which informs
of the state of a component, device, piece of equipment, or
system being monitored. It may notify of a completed proc-
ess, an error condition, and so on.
check program Same as checking program.
check routine Same as checking routine.
check sum Same as checksum.
checkbox Same as check box.
checking program A computer program which detects errors
in other programs, in data, or in a system. Such a program
may be useful, for example, as a debugger. Also called
check program.
checking routine A set of computer instructions which detect
errors in programs, in data, or in a system. Such a routine
may be useful, for example, as a debugger. Also called
check routine.
checkout One or more tests which are performed to verify the
suitability, readiness, or performance of a component, cir-
cuit, device, piece of equipment, system, or program.
checkpoint A designated point at which the state of a com-
puter program or system, and its data, are saved to a non-
volatile storage medium, such as a tape or a disk, so that if
there is an interruption or failure, the program or system can
be restarted from this spot.
checkpoint/restart A method of recovering from an interrup-
tion or failure of a computer program or system, by revert-
ing to the last checkpoint, and restarting from there.
checkpointing The creation of multiple checkpoints, to
facilitate recovery after any possible interruption or failure
of a computer program or system.
checksum Also spelled check sum. 1. A value used to de-
termine whether a block of data has been transmitted or
written without errors. It is calculated by adding the binary
value of each character in the block. After transmission or
writing, a new checksum is calculated, and compared to the
first. If the two numbers do not match, an error has oc-
curred. A checksum will not detect all errors, nor will it
alert to data that was erroneous to begin with. 2. A check-
sum (1) utilized to verify the integrity of files, a piece of
code, or programs. Used, for instance for verification that a
file has not been infected by a virus.
chemical 1. Pertaining to chemistry. 2. Same as chemical
compound.
chemical bond An attractive force sufficient to unite atoms so
that they function as a unit. Also called bond (2).
chemical compound A substance comprised of a specific
proportion of two or more constituents, each of which is a
chemical element. There are countless chemical com-
pounds. Also called chemical (2), or compound (2).
chemical deposition
chemical deposition The precipitation of a metal from a
solution of one of its salts, when another suitable metal is
added to the solution. Used, for instance, in the manufactur-
ing of some semiconductordevices.
chemical element A substance which can not be subdivided
into smaller units by chemical means. There are over 110
known chemical elements, each with unique properties, and
they comprise all matter above the atomic level. The small-
est particle that retains all the properties of an element is an
atom. All neutral atoms of a given chemical element have
the same number of protons and electrons, and if an element
has isotopes, the difference between each is the number of
neutronsin its nucleus. Also called element (3).
chemical etching The etching of a surface, such as that of a
metal, by the effects of a chemical reaction.
chemical formula A combination of chemical symbols and
numbers which describes the chemical composition of a
substance. For instance, the chemical formula of boron tri-
chloride is BCb, indicating that for each boron atom there
are three chlorine atoms. Also called formula (2).
chemical laser A laser that uses chemical reactions, as op-
posed to electrical energy, to produce high-energy atoms
which enable laser action to take place. For instance, laser
action can occur in carbon dioxide if it is present when hy-
drogen and fluorinereact.
chemical symbol A notation which is used to represent and
identify a chemical element. For instance, the chemical
symbol for platinum is Pt. Whether it is pure, or in a
chemical compound,the symbol Pt indicatesthe presence of
platinum.
chemical-vapor deposition A process in which a thin film of
a material is applied to a substrate, using a controlled
chemical reaction. Used, for instance, in semiconductor
manufacturing. Common techniques include low-pressure
chemical-vapor deposition, atmospheric pressure chemical-
vapor deposition, and plasma enhanced chemical-vapor
deposition. Its abbreviation is CVD.
chemistry The science that deals with the composition, analy-
sis, structure, properties, synthesis, interactions, and trans-
formations of matter.
Cherenkov counter A counter of high-energy charged parti-
cles, which measures Cherenkov radiation. Also spelled
Cerenkov counter.
Cherenkov radiation Visible light emitted when charged
particlestravel through a transparent medium faster than the
speed of light through the same medium. Seen, for instance,
as a faint bluish glow in pools of water cooling some nuclear
reactors. Also spelled Cerenkov radiation.
child 1. A process which is initiated by another process,
which is called parent (1). 2. Data which is dependent on
other data, which is called parent (2). 3. A component or
process which is dependent on another, which is called par-
ent (3).
child file A current version of a file, such as that being up-
dated. The copy or version saved before it is called parent
file. Also called son file.
Child-Langmuir equation Same as Child-Langmuir law.
Child-Langmuir law For a thermionic diode, an equation
which yields the cathode current in a space-charge-limited-
current state. Also known as Child-Langmuir equation,
Child-Langmuir-Schottky equation, or Child's law.
Child-Langmuir-Schottky equation Same as Child-
Langmuir law.
Child's law Same as Child-Langmuir law.
chip 1. A small piece of semiconductormaterial upon which
miniature electronic circuit components, such as transistors
or resistors,are placed. A chip, for instance, may have hun-
dreds of millions of transistors. There are various types, in-
109 chip-on-glass
eludingmemory chips, and logic chips. An entire computer
may be held on a single chip with the appropriate compo-
nents, and such chips may be used in countless items, such
as automobiles, toys, appliances, clocks, and so on. Also
called microchip, IC, or microcircuit. 2. A piece of semi-
conductor material or dielectric upon which one or more
electrical components may be mounted, etched, or formed.
Alsocalled die (1). 3. A piece of semiconductor material or
dielectric upon which one or more electricalcomponents has
been mounted, etched, or formed. Also called die (2).
4. Sameas CPU (1).
chip capacitor A capacitor constructed in chip form. These
are very small, and are used, for instance, in high-precision
circuits.
chip card Also called smart card, or IC card. 1. A card
which incorporates one or more chips, including a processor
and memory. Such cards are usually the size of a credit
card, and are used in conjunction with chip card readers
which communicate with central computers. Such cards
maybe used to verify identity, keep digital cash, store medi-
cal records, and so on. Chip cards are secure,and updatethe
contained information each time it is used. 2. In portable
computers, a chip card (1) utilized to add memory, or as a
peripheral device such as a modem.
chip card reader A device into which chip cards are in-
serted, to access and update their contained information.
Alsocalledsmart card reader, or IC card reader.
chip carrier Abbreviation of chip carrier package. A chip
package, such as a plastic-leadedchip carrier, which is usu-
ally square or rectangular and has connecting leads or sur-
faces on all four sides.
chip carrier package Same as chip carrier.
chip container Same as chip package.
chip cooler Same as CPU cooler.
chip inductor An inductor constructed in chip form. These
are very small, and are used, for instance, in high-precision
circuits
chip-level integration The integration of two or more IC
functions on a single chip.
chip memory A chip which consists of memorycells and the
associated circuits necessary, such as those for addressing,
to providea computer, or other device with memoryor stor-
age. Examples include RAM, SRAM, ROM, EEPROM,
and flash-memory chips. Also called memory chip, mem-
ory IC, or IC memory.
chip-on-board A configuration in which a chip is mounted
directly on a PCB. Also, a technology or techniqueutilized
for such mounting. Its abbreviation is COB. Also called
direct chip attach.
chip-on-chip The assembling of two or more chips, each on
top of the other, using chip-on-chip technology. Useful, for
instance, where multiple technologies must coexist, espe-
cially where space is at a premium, as is the case with port-
ablemedical devices. Its abbreviationis COCo
chip-on-chip technology The technology employedto insure
proper function of chip-on-chips. This technology consid-
ers aspectssuch as heat dissipation, and the mannerin which
the chips are attached to each other. Its abbreviation is
COC technology.
chip-on-film A configuration in which a chip is mounted
directly on a flexible printed circuit. Also, a technology or
technique utilized for such mounting. Its abbreviation is
COF.
chlp-on-glass A configuration in which a chip is mounted
directly on a glass substrate,such as that of an LCD. Also, a
technology or technique utilized for such mounting. Its ab-
breviation is COG.
chip package 110
chip package The housing, usually made of ceramic or plas-
tic, surrounding a chip. The leads or metallic surfaces of the
chip package are used for connection via plugging-in or sol-
dering. Chip packages are usually mounted onto printed-
circuit boards. Also called chip container, IC package, or
package (3).
chip resistor A resistor constructed in chip form. These are
very small, and are used, for instance, in high-precision cir-
cuits.
chip-scale package A chip package which is no more than a
given proportion, such as 200/0, larger than the chip itself.
Its abbreviation is CSP.
chip set Same as chipset.
chip speed Same as CPU speed.
chip tester An instrument which serves to evaluate the func-
tion of chips. Such an instrument, for instance, may be op-
erated automatically for inspection during manufacturing, or
manually, for research and development purposes. Also
called IC tester.
chip testing Tests carried out on chip, such as those per-
formed utilizing a chip tester.
chipset Two or more chips that are designed to function as a
unit. A chipset usually fits on one chip which performs
functions equivalent to what would have previously required
multiple chips. A chipset, for example, may allow certain
peripherals to intercommunicate independently of the CPU,
thus making better use of time and resources. Also spelled
chip set.
chiral Describing a molecule which is not identical to its
mirror image. Such molecules are optically active.
chirality Pertaining to molecules which are chiral.
chirp Rapid fluctuations in the frequency of an electromag-
netic wave, especially when the source is operated in a puls-
ing manner. Also called chirping.
chirp modulation A form of modulation utilizing chirp.
chirp radar A form of radar which utilizes chirp modula-
tion.
Chirped Pulse Amplification A technique in which very
short laser pulses are amplified to very high power levels.
For example, a pulse in the femtosecond range may be am-
plified to energies in the terawatt range. Its abbreviation is
CPA.
Chirped Pulse Amplification Laser A laser utilizing a
Chirped Pulse Amplification technique. Its abbreviation is
CPA laser.
chirping Same as chirp.
Chladni figures Figures formed when a material such as sand
is placed on a conducting plate which is secured, then made
to vibrate. The plate can be made of glass or metal, and the
formed patterns indicate the nature of the vibrations. For
instance, the sand collects most at the nodes, which are the
points on the plate where the vibrations are at a minimum.
Chladni plates Plates used to form Chladni figures.
chloride ion A chlorine atom with an extra electron, which
gives it a negative charge. Its chemical formula is cr.
chlorinated Combined with, or treated by chlorine or a chlo-
rine-containing compound. For instance, chlorinated bi-
phenyls.
chlorinated biphenyls A highly toxic group of organic com-
pounds which are stable and heat-resistant. Once widely
used in capacitors, transformers, and batteries. Also caned
chlorobiphenyls, PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls.
chlorine A chemical element whose atomic number is 17. It
is a dense and highly toxic greenish-yellow gas with a suffo-
cating odor. It is an extremely powerful oxidizer, and is one
of the most reactive elements. It has over 15 known iso-
topes, of which 2 are stable. Because of its activity, it does
chromatic aberration
not occur uncombined in nature, although it is present in
countless compounds. It has numerous applications, includ-
ing its use in the preparation of chlorinated compounds used
in electronics, such as carbon tetrachloride. It is a halogen,
and its chemical symbol is CI.
chlorobipbenyls Same as chlorinated biphenyls.
choke 1. An inductor used in a circuit to present a relatively
high impedance to frequencies beyond a given value. It im-
pedes the flow of AC, while allowing DC to pass freely.
Also called choke coil, choking coil, or impedance coil.
2. To restrict the passing of a current or frequency using a
choke (1). 3. A discontinuity, such as a groove, in the sur-
face of a waveguide, which restricts or blocks certain fre-
quencies.
choke coil Same as choke (1).
choke-coupled modulation Same as constant-current
modulation.
choke coupling The coupling of two waveguide sections so as
to not allow them to touch each other, yet Permit energy to
pass freely.
choke filter Same as choke-input filter.
choke flange A waveguide flange whose surface is cut in a
manner that it may serve as part of a choke joint.
choke-input filter A power-supply filter in which a choke is
connected to the output of the rectifier. That is, the input
component of the filter is a choke. Such filters offer im-
proved line regulation compared to capacitor-input filters.
Also called choke filter.
choke joint A joint which connects two waveguide sections
without metallic contact between their inner walls, yet per-
mits energy to pass freely.
choking coil Same as choke (1).
chopper 1. A device which periodically interrupts a direct
current, light beam, or other signal. This may be done, for
instance, to modulate, or to facilitate the amplification of an
associated quantity. 2. A device which periodically inter-
rupts DC in order to produce AC.
chopper amplifier An amplifier that first chops its DC input
to produce AC, amplifies the signal, and then restores the
DC signal. Also called converter amplifier.
chopper-stabilized amplifier A DC amplifier that incorpo-
rates a chopper for stabilization of its DC input.
chopper transistor A transistor which periodically interrupts
its input signal. For instance, that producing AC by inter-
rupting its DC input.
chopping 1. The action and effect of a chopper. 2. The re-
moval of the upper and/or lower extremes of a wave.
chopping frequency The rate at which a chopper interrupts a
signal. Also called chopping rate.
chopping rate Same as chopping frequency.
chording keyboard A small keyboard which allows for mul-
tiple keys to be pressed simultaneously, with different com-
binations entering any of various letters, symbols, or short-
cuts. Such a keyboard may consist of just a few keys, such
as seven or twelve, and when used proficiently can allow a
single hand to type nearly as quickly as two.
chroma 1. The attribute of color which combines hue and
saturation. 2. In the Munsell system, the attribute of color
that corresponds most closely to saturation. The more satu-
rated, or vivid, a color, the higher the chroma. 3. Same as
color saturation.
chroma control Same as color-saturation control.
chroma oscillator Same as color oscillator.
chromatic 1. Pertaining to color, or color phenomena.
2. Pertaining to chroma.
chromatic aberration 1. In a CRT, such as that in a TV, a
defect in which the focal spot is enlarged and blurred. It
chromaticity
may be due, for instance, to differences in electron velocities
as they are emitted by an electron gun, and how these are
differentially deflected en route to the screen. 2. In an opti-
cal lens, a defect in which not all colors come to focus at the
same point. May be due, for instance, to the physical prop-
erties of the lens.
chromaticity The combination of hue and saturation which
determine the quality of a color. This color quality can be
quantified, and is defined by its chromaticity coordinates.
chromaticity coordinates For a given color sample, the ratio
of each of the tristimulus values to the sum of these three
values. In a trichromaticcolor system, the tristimulus values
are the amountsof each of the three primary colors that must
be combinedin order to match a given color sample.
chromaticity diagram A triangular graph in which chroma-
ticity coordinates are plotted. Such a diagram quantifies
color taking into account human perception.
chrome plating Also called chromium plating, or chro-
mium coating. 1. A thin coating of chromiumdepositedon
another metal. This helps improve corrosion and abrasion
resistance. 2. The electrolytic deposition of chromium onto
a substrate, usually to provide it with greater resistance to
oxidationand corrosion.
chrome tape A magnetic recording tape utilizing chromium
dioxide particles. Such tape, with the proper deck, provides
excellent frequency response and a wide dynamic range.
Also known as chromium tape, chromium recording
tape, or Type II tape.
chromel An alloy, which is usually about 90% nickel and
10%chromium, that is used in thermocouples.
chromic acid Dark red crystals whose chemical formula is
cr03. Used for chromium plating. Also called chromium
trioxide.
chromic oxide Bright green and hard crystals whosechemical
formulais Cr203. Used in semiconductors.
chrominance 1. The difference between a given color and a
specified reference color, each with the same luminous in-
tensity. Used especially in the context of color TV repro-
duction. 2. Same as chrominance signal.
chrominance carrier Same as color subcarrier.
chrominance-carrier reference Same as color-subcarrier
reference.
chrominance channel In color TV, the path, or channel,
whichcarriesthe chrominance signal.
chrominance demodulator Same as chrominance-
subcarrier demodulator.
chrominance frequency Same as chrominance-subcarrier
frequency.
chrominance gain control In color TV, adjustment of the
amplitude of the signal of each of the primarycolors through
the use of variable resistors. The primary colors are red,
green, and blue.
chrominance modulator Same as chrominance-subcarrier
modulator.
chrominance signal In color TV, the video signal which
contains the color information, consisting of the hues and
saturation levels of colors. The luminance signal contains
the brightness information. Its abbreviation is C signal.
Also called carrier chrominance signal, or chrominance
(2).
chrominance subcarrier Same as color subcarrier.
chromlnance-subcarrler demodulator In a color TV re-
ceiver, a demodulator which extracts the chrominance com-
ponents from the chrominance signal, and a sine wave from
the chrominance-subcarrier frequency. Also called chromi-
nance demodulator.
111 CIRC
chrominance-subcarrier frequency In color TV, the fre-
quency of the chrominance subcarrier, which is set at
3.579545 MHz. Also called chrominance frequency.
chrominance-subcarrier modulator In a color TV transmit-
ter, a modulator which generates the chrominance signal
from the chrominance components, and also produces the
chrominance subcarrier frequency. Also called chromi-
nance modulator
chrominance-subcarrier oscillator Same as color oscillator.
chrominance-subcarrier reference Same as color-
subcarrier reference.
chrominance video signal I, The output signal generated by
the red, green, and blue sections of a color TV camera.
2. The output signal generated by the red, green, and blue
sectionsof a color TV receiver matrix.
chromium A hard, brittle steel-gray metallic element whose
atomic number is 24. It has nearly 20 known isotopes, of
which 4 are stable. The compounds it forms generallyhave
varied and intense colors. It is frequently alloyed with, or
plated onto other metals, contributing hardness, heat resis-
tance, strength, and corrosion resistance. Its chemical sym-
bol is Cr.
chromium boride One of several crystalline chemical com-
pounds composed of chromium and boron. Used for high-
temperature electricalconductors.
chromium coating Same as chrome plating.
chromium dioxide Black crystals whose chemical formula is
Cr02. Used in magneticrecording tapes.
chromium plating Same as chrome plating.
chromium recording tape Same as chrome tape.
chromium tape Same as chrome tape.
chromium trioxide Same as chromic acid.
chronistor A small device which uses electroplating to pro-
vide an approximate measure of the time of operation of
equipment.
chronometer An instrument which precisely measures, dis-
plays, and records time intervals. The most accurate chro-
nometers are governed by the natural resonance frequencies
of atoms.
chronoscope An optical instrumentwhich preciselymeasures,
displays, and records brief time intervals.
chronotron An instrument which measures and indicates
extremely the extremely small time intervalsbetweenpulses
over a transmission line.
CI Abbreviation of curie.
CIC Abbreviation of carrier identification code.
CIDR Abbreviation of classless inter-domain routing.
CIF Abbreviation of Common Intermediate Format.
CIFS Abbreviation of Common Internet File System.
CIM l. Abbreviation of computer-integrated manufactur-
ing. 2. Abbreviation of Common Information Model.
3. Abbreviation of computer-input microfilm.
cinematograph A motion picture camera or projector. Also
calledkinematograph.
cipher 1. A system for encoding, usually used for security
purposes. 2. An encoded character.
ciphertext Text or data which has been encoded, usually for
securitypurposes. Ciphertext can not be read without being
decoded.
CIR Abbreviation of committed information rate.
clr mil Abbreviation of circular mil.
CIRC Abbreviation of cross-interleaved Reed-Solomon
code.
circle 112 circuitron

circle A curve, all of whose contained points are equidistant circuit layout Same as circuitry (2).
from a fixed point located at the center of said points. Also, circuit loading 1. The power being drawn from a circuit by a
that whichis in this shape. measuring instrument. This must be accounted for in order
circle diagram 1. A diagram showing graphical solutions of to have an accurate indicated value. 2. The power being
equations for a transmission line. 2. A diagram showing drawn from a circuit.
certainproperties, such as impedance, of AC machines. circuit noise Noise generated in circuits, in addition to that
circuit Its abbreviation is ckt, 1. One or more conducting present in the applied signal. Circuit noise is produced, for
paths which serve to interconnectelectrical elements, in or- instance,by the movementof particles,especiallyelectrons.
der to perform a desired function such as amplification or circuit-noise level At any point within a communications
filtering. Also known as electric circuit (1). 2. One or circuit, the ratio of the circuit noise to a chosen reference
more complete paths through which electronsmay circulate. level. Usuallyexpressed in decibels, or adjusted decibels.
Also known as electric circuit' (2). 3. A medium through
which information is conveyed between two or more loca- circuit-noise meter An instrument which measures circuit-
tions. Such a circuit may be linked physically or wirelessly. noise levels.
Also called channel (2), communications circuit, commu- circuit parameter A specific value for a circuit component,
nications channel, or communications line. such as the resistance of a resistor, or the capacitance of a
circuit analyzer An instrument which measures and indicates capacitor, in a given circuit configuration. Also called pa-
one or more quantities in an electric circuit, such as resis- rameter (2).
tance or voltage. For instance, an oscilloscope or an ohm- circuit protection Protective measures, such as fuses, which
meter. When the instrument measures two or more quanti- safeguard a circuit from overloading, excessive heat, corro-
ties it is also called multimeter, or multifunction meter. sion, and so on.
circuit board A flat, rigid, and insulated panel upon which circuit reliability The proportion of time that a circuit is
electrical components are mounted and connected via con- available for use while meeting the standardsestablishedfor
ductive paths. Used extensively in computers, where the it. Usuallyexpressedas a percentage.
main board is called the motherboard, and secondary boards circuit response 1. A change in the behavior, operation, or
are called expansion boards. Also called circuit card, card function of a circuit as a consequenceof a change in its ex-
(2), or board (1). ternal or internal environment. For example, a change in its
circuit breaker A device which automatically opens a circuit output resulting from a change in its input. 2. A quantified
under specified conditions, such as a current exceeding a set circuit response (1), such as a frequency response.
amount. If it resets itself after anothercondition is met,such circuit schematic Same as circuit diagram.
as the passingof a given time period, then it is an automatic
circuit simplification The designing of circuits so that the
circuit breaker. Its abbreviation is CD.
desired function is performed utilizing the least electrical
circuit-breaker panel A panel or box which housesa set of elements,and the simplest wiring possible.
circuit breakers.
circuit simulation The use of computers to simulate the be-
circuit capacity 1. The maximum quantity, such as that of havior of circuits before even a prototype is prepared.
current, that can be handled by an electric circuit. 2. The Computer-aided design may be used for this.
maximum quantity of communication channels that a com-
munications circuit can handle simultaneously. circuit-switched data An ISDN option which enables a
bearer channel to transmit digital data over a dedicated con-
circuit card Same as circuit board. nection. Its abbreviation is eso.
circuit component Any of the electrical elements that are a circuit-switched voice An ISDN option which enables a
part of a circuit. These may include resistors, capacitors, bearer channel to provide a digital transmission of a voice
transistors, generators, electron tubes, and so on. Each communication over a dedicated connection. Its abbrevia-
component has terminals which allow it to be connected to tion is CSV.
the conducting path. Also called circuit element, compo-
nent (2), element (2), electrical element, electrical com- circuit switching Also known as line switching. 1. The
ponent, or part (3). temporary linking of two communications terminals in order
to establisha communications channel. This circuit must be
circuit continuity The condition in which a circuit has a
established before communication can occur, and remainsin
continuous and complete path for the flow of current. Also
exclusive use by these terminals until the connection is ter-
calledcontinuity (2).
minated. Used, for instance, by telephone companiesto en-
circuit design The specifying of the electrical elements, and able dial-up voice conversations. Such a connectionis made
the,manner in which they interconnect with each other, in at a switching center. 2. The temporary linking of two data
the formation of a circuit which performsa desiredfunction. terminals, in a manner that the connectionremains in exclu-
Also calleddesign (2). sive use by these terminals until the connection is termi-
circuit diagram A graphical representation of the electrical nated.
elements in a circuit, and the way each is interconnected circuit test A test performedto ascertain the performance of a
with each other. Each circuit element is represented by a
circuit. For instance,a test of continuity.
symbol,while lines represent the wiring. Alsocalledcircuit
schematic, schematic diagram, wiring diagram, sche- circuit tester An instrumentwhich tests the performance of a
matic circuit diagram, wiring schematic, or diagram (3). circuit. For instance,a continuitytester.
circuit efficiency The ratio of the useful output power of a circuit testing 1. A series of tests intended to ascertain the
circuit,to the input power. performance of a circuit. 2. The performing of a test to as-
certainthe performanceof a circuit.
circuit element Same as circuit component.
circuit theory The mathematic analysis of electric circuits,
circuit grade 1. A designation which indicates the informa-
and the relationships between the components such circuits
tion-carrying capability of a communications circuit. For
instance, voice grade, or broadband. 2. A designation which contain. Also called electric circuit theory.
indicates the information-carrying capabilityof a communi- circuitron A collection of active and passive electroniccom-
cations circuit in terms of transmission speed. For instance, ponentsmounted inside the same enclosure,and functioning
data transmissions at speeds up to 100Mbps. as one or more completeoperatingstages.
circuitry 113
circuitry 1. The complete circuits which compose an electri-
cal device or system. 2. The physical arrangement of the
electrical elements that are part of a given circuit. Also
called circuit layout.
circular 1. Moving in a manner which resembles a circle or
helix. 2. In the form of a circle.
circular accelerator A particle accelerator, such as a cyclo-
tron, in which particles follow a circular or spiraling path.
This contrasts with a linear accelerator, in which they fol-
Iowa straight line.
circular antenna An antenna consisting of a folded dipole
antenna bent into a circle. When mounted horizontally it
has a uniform radiation pattern in all directions.
circular current An electric current traveling in a circular
path.
circular electric wave A transverse electric wave whose lines
of electric force form concentric circles.
circular frequency The frequency of a periodic quantity
expressed in radians per second. It is obtained by multiply-
ing the frequency by 21r. Also called radian frequency,
angular frequency, or angular velocity.
circular horn A waveguide section which in the shape of a
hom. Used, for instance, as a feed for a microwave reflec-
tor.
circular magnetic wave A transversal magnetic wave whose
lines'of magnetic force form concentric circles.
circular mil A unit of area equal to the area of a circle whose
diameter is 0.001 inch. Used mainly to specify cross-
sectional areas of wires. Its abbreviation is emil, or cir mil.
circular polarization Polarization of an electromagnetic
wave in which the electric field vector is of a constant mag-
nitude, and rotates in a pla!1eso as to form a circle.
circular scan Same as circular scanning.
circular scanning In radars, scanning in which a complete
scan consists of a horizontal rotation of the radar beam
through 360. Also called circular scan.
circular waveguide A waveguide whose cross section is in
the form of a circle.
circularly-polarized light A light wave with circular polari-
zation.
circularly-polarized wave A wave with circular polariza-
tion.
circulating memory A form of computer storage in which a
delay line is used to store information. Also called circulat-
ing storage, or delay-line memory.
circulating register A computer register which utilizes a
delay line. Also called delay-line register.
circulating storage Same as circulating memory.
circulator A multiport waveguide junction in which micro-
wave energy entering one of its ports is transmitted to an ad-
jacent port, and on to the next, in a predetermined rotation.
Also called microwave circulator.
CIS Abbreviation of Contact Image Sensor.
CISC 1. Acronym for complex instruction set computer.
2. Acronym for complex instruction set computing.
citizens' band A radio-frequency band designated for unli-
censed two-way communications. Such transceivers are
limited to transmission power 4 watts. Its abbreviation is
CR. Also called citizens' waveband.
citizens' radio service A radio communications service for
citizens' band communications.
citizens' waveband Same as citizens' band.
city code A code used for dialing a city other than that within
which a telephone call is originated. Such a code may be
preceded by a country code, and is followed by the specific
class A IP address
telephone number. Some regions require dialing the city
code even when the call is originated in the same city.
ckt Abbreviation of circuit.
CI Chemical symbol for chlorine.
cladding 1. A layer that surrounds the core of an optical fiber.
2. The bonding of two or more materials. For instance, plat-
ing a metal.
clamp 1. A mechanical device which serves to bind, press, or
otherwise firmly hold two or more parts together. A clamp
may also provide mechanical support, strain relief, and vi-
bration absorption. 2. To restore the DC component to a
wave or signal. 3. To add a DC component to a wave or
signal which lacks such a component. 4. To establish a ref-
erence DC level in a signal or device.
clamper Also called clamping circuit, DC restorer, or rein-
serter. 1. A circuit or device which restores the DC compo-
nent of a wave or signal. 2. A circuit or device which adds a
DC component to a wave or signal which lacks such a com-
ponent. 3. A circuit or device which establishes a reference
DC level in a signal or device.
clamping Also called DC reinsertion, or DC restoration.
1. The restoration of the DC component to a wave or signal.
2. The adding of a DC component to a wave or signal which
lacks such a component. 3. The establishing of a reference
DC level in a signal or device.
clamping circuit Same as clamper.
clamping voltage The peak voltage a surge suppressor allows
to pass.
Clapp oscillator A Colpitts oscillator with a tuning capacitor
in series with the resonant tank circuit, which provides
greater stability. Also called series-tuned Colpitts oscilla-
tor.
clapper 1. An armature that is hinged or pivoted. 2. A me-
chanical device with a striking action, such as the tongue of
a bell.
clarity The quality and/or state of being clear.
Clark cell A standard cell used as a reference voltage source,
in which the positive electrode is mercury, the negative elec-
trode is an amalgam of zinc and mercury, and the electrolyte
is a solution of zinc sulfate. It has a voltage of approxi-
mately 1.433 at 15C. Also called zinc standard cell.
class 1. A group or set sharing common characteristics. 2. In
object-oriented programming, a set of objects which share
common characteristics. For instance, a class may be titled
geometric shapes, and contain objects which are triangles,
squares, pentagons, hexagons, and so on. 3. Classifications
of amplifiers based on the relationship between the input
signal and the output current. For classification purposes, a
simplified output stage consisting of two complementary
tubes or transistors is assumed for most classes. Each class
has its own linearity and efficiency characteristics. Exam-
ples include class A amplifiers, class AB amplifiers, class C
amplifiers, and so on. Also called amplifier class.
class A A Federal Communications Commission certification
which indicates that the tested device complies with the es-
tablished limits of electromagnetic radiation for a business
digital device. Class B pertains to residential digital de-
vices.
class A amplifier A linear amplifier in which there is a cur-
rent output at all times, regardless of the stage of the input
signal. Since it always operates at full power, it is the most
inefficient of all power amplifier designs. On the other
hand, it features the least distortion. Used, for instance, in
audio high-fidelity systems.
class A IP address Abbreviation of class A Internet-Protocol
address. An IP address that can range from 1.0.0.0 through
126.255.255.255. These can define a maximum of over 16.7
class A IP network 114
million hosts, and are used mostly by large entities such as
governments. Also called class A IP network.
class A IP network Same as class A IP address.
class A modulator A class A amplifier used for supplying
the signal power to modulatea carrier.
class AB amplifier An intermediate between class A and
class B amplifiers. Both output devices are on more than
50% of each half cycle of the input, but never all the time.
This increases efficiency compared to class A, and allows
for faster response to the input when compared to class B.
The good efficiency and low distortion make it a popular
choice for audio high-fidelitysystems. Another use, among
others,is in asymmetrical digital subscriberlines.
class B A Federal Communications Commission certification
which indicates that the tested device complies with the es-
tablished limits of electromagnetic radiationfor a residential
digitaldevice.. Class A pertains to businessdigitaldevices.
class B amplifier A linear amplifier in which each of the
output devices is on for each half of the input cycle. When
there is no input signal, it has no output current. These am-
plifiers feature high efficiency, but sufTer from high cross-
over distortion. Used, for example, in two-way radios.
class B IP address Abbreviation of class B Internet-Protocol
address. An IP address that can range from 128.0.0.0
through 191.255.255.255. These can define a maximum of
approximately 65,500 hosts, and are used mostlyby medium
to largecorporations. Also called class B IP network.
class 8 IP network Same as class B IP address.
class B modulator A class B amplifier used for supplying
the signalpower to modulatea carrier.
class C amplifier An amplifier in which the currentfromeach
outputdevice flows for substantiallyless than half of the in-
put cycle, as opposed to operating uninterruptedly during
each half cycle, as is the case with class 8 amplifiers. It is
highly efficient, but also has high distortion. Used mostly
for radio-frequency transmissions.
class C IP address Abbreviation of class C Internet-Protocol
address. An IP address that can range from 192.0.0.0
through 223.255.255.255. These can define a maximum of
approximately 254 hosts, and are used mostly by small cor-
porations. Also caned class C IP network.
class C IP network Same as class C IP address.
class D amplifier A digital amplifier in which the output
devices are quickly switched on and off multiple times dur-
ing each input cycle. These amplifiers have particularly
high efficiency. The higher the switching speed, the lower
the level of distortion. Used in many voice-bandwidth and
musicsystems, among others.
class D IP address Abbreviation of class D Internet-Protocol
address. An IP address that can range from 224.0.0.0
through 239.255.255.255. These are used for IP multicast-
ing and are assigned to groups of hosts. Alsocalled class D
IP network.
class D IP network Same as class 0 IP address.
class E amplifier An amplifier consisting of a single transis-
tor which acts as a switch. Highly efficient, but depending
on the design may have very high distortion. Used, for ex-
ample,in portablecommunications devices.
class E IP address Abbreviation of class E Internet-Protocol
address. An IP address that can range from 240.0.0.0
through 255.255.255.255. These are reserved for special
uses and future addressing modes. Also called class E IP
network.
class E IP network Same as class E IP address.
class F amplifier Similar to a class E amplifier, it consistsof
a single transistor which acts as a switch. Highly efficient,
but depending on the design may have very high distortion.
Used,for example, in portablecommunications devices.
clear box
class G amplifier A linear amplifier which works like a class
A or class AD amplifier, but that varies the power voltage
depending on the input signal strength. This design offers
higher efficiency along with low distortion. Used, for ex-
ample, in high-fidelity audio systems, and asymmetrical
digital subscriber lines.
class H amplifier A refinement of class G amplifiers. Incor-
porates tracking of the input signal so that the output voltage
is optimized. Used in high-fidelity audio systems, among
others.
class library A set of routines and programs that program-
mers can use to write object-oriented programs. For exam-
ple, such a set may include a group of applet routines.
class of service Its abbreviation is COS. 1. A given level of
service purchased from a telephone company. For instance,
measured-rate residential, or flat-rate business. 2. A given
level of servicepurchased from a public data network.
class variable In object-oriented programming, a variable
which contains information shared by all instances of the
class.
classical electron radius A physical constant equal to ap-
proximately2.8179 x 10- 13 em. Its symbol is r e Also called
electron radius.
Classical Internet Protocol Same as ClassicallP.
Classical IP Abbreviationof Classical Internet Protocol. An
IETF standard for sending IP packets over ATM networks.
Its own abbreviationis CLIP.
classless inter-domain routing A technique in which routers
group routes together so as to reduce the information carried
by the core routers. Also spelled classless interdomain
routing. Its abbreviation is CIDR.
classless interdomaln routing Same as classless inter-
domain routing.
CLCC Abbreviation of ceramic leadless chip carrier.
clean boot A computer startup in which only the essential
components of the operating system are loaded. Used, for
instance, for diagnosing any problems that are occurring
while booting.
clean install 1. The installation of software after completely
removing any other version of it. Used, for instance, to
solve persistent problems with a program. 2. The installa-
tion of softwareonto a newly formatted disk.
clean room A sealed room in which exceptional measuresare
taken to provide a contaminant-free environment. In order
to keep dust and other small particles out, there may be
seamless plastic walls, external wiring, and a continuous
supply of 100% filtered air, among others. Those working
in clean rooms must wear special clothing which includes
head coverings and special slippers, and before entering,
must take a shower of blasted air. Temperature and humid-
ity are also strictly controlled. Used for manufacturing and
research. Seen, for instance, in a chip fabrication plant.
clear 1. Easily seen or heard. 2. Free from ambiguity. 3. Free
from restrictions or limitations. 4. Available for use. 5. To
restore a storage element or storage locationto its zero state.
Also called reset (4). 6. To remove or delete instructions or
data from a computer or calculator. 7. To remove all con-
tent from a display, such as that of a computer. 8. A func-
tion key, such as that found on a calculator, used to delete
the previousentry, a memory location,or everything.
clear band In optical character recognition, a section above
and below the scan line which must be clear in order for the
scan line to be read correctly. The dimensions of this band
vary dependingon factors such as the reader being used.
clear box Also called white box, or open box. 1. A compo-
nent, device, or unit whose internal structure and function
are known in great detail. Usually used in the context of its
insertion into a system. 2. In computers, a hardware or
clear-box testing 115
software unit whose internal structure and function is known
in great detail.
clear-box testing Also called white-box testing, structural
testlug.-or open-box testing. 1. Any tests utilizing the as-
sistance of a clear box (1). This contrasts with black-box
testing (1), in which the inner structure is not known, or is
not necessary to be known. 2. Tests of software or hardware
utilizing the assistance of a clear box (2). This contrasts
with black-box testing (2), in which the inner structure is
not known, or is not necessary to be known.
clear channell. A radio broadcaster which has the exclusive
use of a given frequency within its service area. 2. A T I
service in which all 64 kilobits per second are available for
information transmission in each of the first 23 channels,
while the 24th channel, which is the last, is dedicated to sig-
naling.
clear-channel capability A characteristic of a communica-
tions channel, in which there is no restriction on the bit pat-
terns that can be transmitted. That is, any number of con-
secutive zeroes can pass without loss of synchronization. Its
abbreviation is CCC. Also called clear-channel coding.
clear channel coding Same as clear-channel capability.
clear GIF A GIF which shows the background through all or
part of an image. Used, for instance, for smooth blending of
graphics on Web pages, or for spying on users utilizing Web
bugs. Also called transparent GIF, or invisible GIF.
clear memory To reset all memory registers.
clear text Text which is not encrypted, as opposed to cipher-
text, which has been. It is simply regular text before or after
encryption. Also spelled cleartext. Also called plaintext.
clear to send In communications, a signal some devices send
indicating its readiness to receive a transmission. It is sent
in response to a request to send from the other station. Its
abbreviation is CTS.
clearance 1. The distance or space between two objects. For
instance, the space between conductors, or between a mov-
ing and a stationary part of a machine. 2. The minimum
separation that must be maintained between two objects,
such as conductors.
cleartext Same as clear text.
cleavage The characteristic of a crystal splitting along a given
plane when subjected to the proper pressure. A mica, for
instance, splits in one direction, while others in several.
cleave To split a crystal along one or more definite planes.
CLEC Abbreviation of competitive local exchange carrier.
click To press and release a button once on a computer mouse,
or similar device. Used, for instance, to select a hyperlink.
click and drag To use a pointing-device, such as a mouse, to
click on an on-screen object, and drag it to another location
without releasing the button until said object is placed where
desired.
click-through On the World Wide Web, the use of a mouse to
click on a hyperlink that leads to another Web site. Occurs,
for instance, when a user clicks on a banner ad.
clickstream The Web pages a user visits during a given ses-
sion or period, as revealed by the clicks on hypermedia
which lead from page to page. Such a sequence may be ob-
tained, for instance, through the use of spyware.
clickstream analysis The scrutiny of clickstreams for pur-
poses such as marketing research or spying.
client Within a client/server architecture, the client.
client application An application running on a client within a
client/server architecture.
client-based That which resides, occurs, or runs on a client.
For example, client-based archiving, or a client-based appli-
cation. That which is server-based resides, occurs, or runs
on a server.
clipping
client-based application An application which resides and/or
runs on a client, as opposed to a server-based application
which resides and/or runs on a server.
client-based archiving Archiving which occurs at a client, as
opposed to server-based archiving which takes place at a
server.
client-based computing The use of applications stored and/or
run on a client. This contrasts with server-based comput-
ing, in which applications are stored and/or run on a server.
client program Same as client software.
client/server application An application being utilized in a
client/server architecture.
client/server architecture A network environment within
which all computers participate in tasks requiring processing
power. Clients are individual computers or workstations
that depend on the servers for certain resources, such as
network administration, security, and data management.
Applications are run on clients, although they can usually
rely on the servers to help in processing. The client is
known as the front end, while the server is known as the
back end. Its abbreviation is CSA. Also called cli-
ent/server environment.
client/server environment Same as client/server architec-
ture.
client/server network A network utilizing a client/server
architecture.
client/server protocol A communications protocol used over
a network with a client/server architecture.
client side Any activity, such as processing, occurring at a
client within a client/server architecture.
client-side script A script run on a client, such as a Web
browser. A server-side script is run on a server, such as a
Web server.
client software Software running on a client within a cli-
ent/server architecture. Also called client program.
clinometer Any of various instruments used to measure verti-
cal angles, such as the steepness of slopes. May be used, for
instance, in a mobile robot.
clip 1. A device which serves to grasp or connect, usually
through the use of spring-loaded jaws. For example, an alli-
gator clip. 2. In computer graphics, to cut off of a displayed
image beyond a given boundary.
CLIP Abbreviation of ClassicallP.
clipboard A special memory area where cut or copied infor-
mation is stored. To retrieve the information, a paste opera-
tion may be used. The stored content may be data, multi-
media, and so on.
clipper A circuit or device which limits the amplitude of its
output signal to a predetermined maximum, regardless of the
variations of its input. Used, for example, for preventing
component, equipment, or media overloads. Also called by
various other names, including. clipper circuit, clipping
circuit, limiter, amplitude-limiting circuit, limiter circuit,
and peak limiter.
clipper amplifier An amplifier which limits the amplitude of
its output signal to a predetermined maximum, regardless of
the variations of its input.
clipper circuit Same as clipper.
clipper-limiter A circuit or device which passes only those
portions of an input signal which lie between two fixed am-
plitude boundaries. These boundaries are usualJy close to-
gether. Also called amplitude gate, slicer, or slicer ampli-
fier.
clipping 1. The action and effect of a clipper. Also called
limiting. 2. The unintended limiting of the amplitude of an
output signal, due to the exceeding of the capabilities of an
amplifier or circuit. 3. In an audio transmission, the loss of
clipping circuit
words or syllables, due to interruptions of portions of the
signal. These are usually due to equipment limitations or
malfunctions. 4. In computer graphics, the cutting off of a
displayed image beyond a given boundary. Also called scis-
soring. S. A portion of the content of a given Web page.
Used; for instance, to provide only the basic information
needed when accessing the Internet via a low-bandwidth de-
vice such as certain cell phones or PDAs. Also called Web
clipping.
clipping circuit Same as clipper.
clipping level The amplitude level at which a wave or signal
is limited.
CLNP Abbreviation of connectionless network protocol.
CLNS Abbreviation of connectionless network service.
clock 1. A circuit or device which provides a steady stream of
timed pulses. Used, for instance, as the internal timing de-
vice of a digital computer, upon which aB its operations de-
pend. 2. An instrument or device which measures and indi-
cates time. For instance, that kept and displayed by a TV.
clock/calendar In a computer, an independent circuit which
keeps track of the date and time. It has its own battery, and
serves, for instance, to stamp the time and date a file is cre-
ated or modified. A clock/calendar is not used to generate
clock pulses.
clock-control system A system, such as a digital computer,
whose operations are governed by a timing mechanism.
Also called time-controlled system.
clock-controlled A circuit, device, piece of equipment, sys-
tem, or network whose operations are governed by a timing
mechanism.
clock cycle The time interval necessary for a clock pulse in a
computer to complete a full cycle. For example, a 4 GHz
computer has 4 billion evenly spaced cycles per second.
Also called clock tick, or CPU cycle.
clock frequency The master frequency generated by a clock
(1).
clock oscillator An oscillator which controls a clock (1).
clock pulse The signals which are utilized to SYnchronize the
operations of a circuit, device, piece of equipment, system,
or network. Also called clock signal.
clock rate The speed at which the internal clock of a device
provides a stream of timed pulses. When used to quantify
the speed at which a CPU operates, it is expressed in multi-
ples of hertz, such as gigahertz. Also called clock speed.
clock signal Same as clock pulse.
clock skew In a clock-synchronized circuit, device, piece of
equipment, system, or network, the arrival of the clock
pulses at two or more places at different times. If the clock
skew exceeds a given amount, it can cause errors and mal-
functions.
clock speed Same as clock rate.
clock-synchronized A circuit, device, piece of equipment,
system, or network whose operations are synchronized by a
timing mechanism.
clock tick Same as clock cycle.
clocked nip-Oop A flip-flop with an additional input consist-
ing of a clock pulse. Its output state depends on the inputs at
the instant of the applied clock pulse.
clocked gate A gate circuit whose function is triggered by
clock pulses.
clocking The use of clock pulses to synchronize the opera-
tions of a circuit, device, piece of equipment, system, or
network.
clockwise In the same direction as the moving hands of a
clock when viewed from the front. Its abbreviation is cw.
clockwise-polarized wave An elliptically-polarized trans-
verse electromagnetic wave in which the rotation of the
116 closed-box testing
electric field vector is towards the right when viewed along
the direction of propagation. Also called right-hand polar-
ized wave.
clone A hardware or software computer product which does
the same thing as another, earlier product. For instance, a
computer system which is 100% compatible with a long-
standing well-known brand name, yet is produced by an-
other, lesser-known brand.
clone PC Abbreviation of clone personal computer. A com-
puter system which does the same thing as another, earlier
product. A PC-clone must be 100% compatible with the
well-known computer it is based on. Also called PC clone.
clone personal computer Same as clone PC.
cloning software Software which copies the complete con-
tents of the hard disk from one computer to another. Used,
for instance, for backup, or when installing a new system.
close 1. To bring to an end. For instance, to end a program, to
shut a window, or to terminate a communications link.
2. To make complete, as in a circuit. Closing a circuit en-
ables the flow of current.
close button A virtual button on a computer screen, which
when clicked, serves to shut a given window.
close coupling 1. In a transformer, the arrangement of the
primary and secondary windings in a manner which pro-
vides for a high degree of energy transfer. Also called tight
coupling (1), or strong coupling (2). 2. In a transformer,
the arrangement of the primary and secondary windings in a
manner which provides maximum energy transfer. Also
called tight coupling (2), or strong coupling (3).
close miking The placement of a microphone close to a sound
source. Depending on the needs, the distance may be as lit-
tle as 2 centimeters, or as much as about 15 centimeters.
Used, for instance, when reflected sounds wish to be ex-
cluded from the signal.
close-talk microphone Same as close-talking microphone.
close-talking microphone A microphone whose characteris-
tics require it to be used in close proximity to its sound
source. Such microphones are well-suited for use in sur-
roundings with excessive background noise, such as a room
full of telephone operators. Also called close-talk micro-
phone, or noise-canceling microphone (2).
closed I. Continuous and/or unbroken. For instance, a closed
circuit has an uninterrupted path for current. A switch in the
closed position is the same as being on. 2. Forming a self-
contained unit or system. 3. Blocking, or otherwise ob-
structing. 4. Not having a space or gap, as opposed to hav-
ing such a space or gap. S. Not accessible to all, or not de-
signed to work across different architectures or with varied
products. For example, a closed architecture.
closed architecture A device or system whose technical
specifications are not made public. In computers, for in-
stance, this discourages third-party vendors from developing
compatible products. This contrasts with an open architec-
ture, in which technical specifications are made public.
closed box 1. A component, device, or unit with an input and
an output, which can be inserted into a system without the
need to know its internal structure. It is simply used based
on its input and output characteristics. Also called black
box (1). 2. In computers, a hardware or software unit whose
internal structure is unknown, but whose function is known.
Also called black box (2).
closed-box testing Also called black-box testing, or func-
tional testing. 1. Any tests utilizing the assistance of a
closed box (1). This contrasts with open-box testing, which
requires detailed knowledge of the inner workings. 2. Tests of
software or hardware utilizing the assistance of a closed box
(2). This contrasts with open-box testing, which requires
detailed knowledge of the inner workings.
closed-captioned 117
closed-captioned TV programming which has closed-
captioning. Its abbreviation is cc, Also called closed-
captioned programming.
closed-captioned programming Same as closed-captioned.
closed-captioning In TV programming, the providing of text,
and symbols such as n, which are intended to accurately
transcribe the dialogue and describe the sounds of the
viewed program. A decoder is necessary to show close cap-
tioning, the displayed text is superimposed on the viewed
image, and such text may be encoded in any desired lan-
guage. Useful, for instance, for those with reduced hearing.
The term may also apply to other video programming so en-
abled. This contrasts with subtitles, which do not need a
decoder to be displayed. Its abbreviation is cc,
closed captions The text and symbols seen when viewing
programming with closed-captioning.
closed circuit 1. A circuit which has a complete and uninter-
rupted path for the flow of current. Also called continuous
circuit, or complete circuit. 2. A TV transmission not in-
tended for public reception, as in closed-circuit TV.
closed-circuit communications system A self-contained
communications system with a given number of units, with
no provision for exchange of information with any outside
units or systems. For instance, a closed-circuit TV system.
Also called closed-circuit system.
closed-circuit jack A jack whose circuit is closed until the
corresponding plug is inserted.
closed-circuit security system 1. A security system utilizing
closed-circuit TV. 2. A security system which monitors a
closed circuit (1), so as to detect any irregularities which
may indicate a breach.
closed-circuit signaling A signaling system in which signals
are provided by increases and decreases in the current of a
circuit.
closed-circuit system Same as closed-circuit communica-
tions system.
closed-circuit television Same as closed-circuit TV.
closed-circuit television monitor Same as closed-circuit TV
monitor.
closed-circuit television signal Same as closed-circuit TV
signal.
closed-circuit television surveillance Same as closed-circuit
TV surveillance.
closed-circuit television system Same as closed-circuit TV
system.
closed-circuit television transmission Same as closed-
circuit TV transmission.
closed-circuit TV A TV transmission system which is not
intended for public reception. In this system, one or more
cameras are in a closed circuit with one or more TV receiv-
ers, which are the only ones that can receive the transmitted
signals. Used, for instance, for surveillance of a location.
Its abbreviation is CCTV. Also called closed-circuit TV
system.
closed-circuit TV monitor A monitor which receives closed-
circuit TV transmissions. Its abbreviation is CCTV moni-
tor.
closed-circuit TV signal The signal transmitted in a closed-
circuit TV system. Its abbreviation is CCTV signal.
closed-circuit TV surveillance The use of closed-circuit TV
for surveillance purposes. Its abbreviation is CCTV sur-
veillance.
closed-circuit TV system Same as closed-circuit TV.
closed-circuit TV transmission The transmission of a
closed-circuit TV signal.
closed core A magnetic core in which the paths of the mag-
netic lines of force do not pass through air. Such a design
cluster testing
generates less EMI, but handles less current than open
cores. An example is a toroidal core.
closed loop 1. In computer programming, a loop which re-
peats itself indefinitely, unless interrupted or stopped by ex-
ternal intervention. An open loop (1) repeats itself a speci-
fied number of times. 2. In a control system, a circuit in
which a feedback signal and a reference input are compared,
in order to control the output quantity. An open loop (2)
does not incorporate such feedback.
closed-loop control system A control system in which a
feedback signal and a reference input are compared in order
to control the output quantity, so as to maintain operation
within the specified parameters. For example, a thermostat
may provide the feedback signal in a heating or refrigerating
system. This contrasts with an open-loop control system,
which has no feedback signal. Also called closed-loop sys-
tem, or feedback control system.
closed-loop gain The gain of an amplifier when it has a feed-
back signal. When no such loop is present it is called open-
loop gain.
closed-loop output Impedance The impedance of an ampli-
fier when it has a feedback signal. When no such loop is
present it is called open-loop impedance.
closed-loop output resistance The resistance of an amplifier
when it has a feedback signal. When no such loop is present
it is called open-loop resistance.
closed-loop system Same as closed-loop control system.
closed-loop voltage gain In an amplifier with a feedback
signal, the ratio of the output voltage to the input voltage.
When no such loop is present, it is called open-loop voltage
gain.
closed magnetic circuit 1. A complete and unintenupted path
for magnetic flux circulation around a ferromagnetic core.
2. A complete and uninterrupted path for magnetic flux cir-
culation.
closed standard A set of hardware and/or software specifica-
tions that are not made public. Such standards discourage
interoperability, and may limit the proliferation of new tech-
nologies, platforms, interfaces, methods, applications, de-
vices, and so on. This contrasts with an open standard, in
which technical specifications are made public.
closed subroutine A subroutine that must be stored in a speci-
fied location to be accessed by a routine, while an open
subroutine can be included in a routine from wherever said
subroutine is located.
closed system A system whose technical specifications are
not made public. In computers, for instance, this discour-
ages third-party vendors from developing compatible prod-
ucts. This contrasts with an open system, in which techni-
cal specifications are made public
cloud absorption The absorption of electromagnetic radiation
by water present in clouds, whether it is in solid, liquid, or
gas form.
cloud attenuation The attenuation of electromagnetic radia-
tion by clouds, due to scattering rather than absorption.
cloverleaf antenna An omnidirectional transmitting antenna
whose radiating elements are shaped similarly to a four-leaf
clover. It provides maximum radiation in the horizontal
plane.
CLP Abbreviation of cell loss priority.
CLR Abbreviation of cell loss ratio.
cluster 1. A fixed number of disk sectors treated as a unit. It
is the smallest unit of storage that a computer operating sys-
tem can handle. Also called allocation unit. 2. Two or
more hardware devices or systems working as a unit.
cluster testing A testing procedure in which groups of com-
ponents or devices, such as capacitors or chips, are tested as
a single unit.
clustering
clustering In computers and networks, the combining of two
or more systems or servers, so they can work as a unit.
Used in networks, for instance, to improve capacity, or for
continued operation if one fails.
clutter In radars, unwanted echoes that appear on the display
screen. Clutter may be caused by rain, antenna movements,
vegetation, and so on. Also known as radar clutter, or
background return.
CLV Abbreviation of constant linear velocity.
cm Abbreviation of centimeter.
CM Abbreviation of configuration management.
Cm Chemical symbol for curium.
CMB Abbreviation of cosmic microwave background.
CMBR Abbreviation of cosmic microwave background
radiation.
CMI Abbreviation of computer-managed instruction.
cmil Abbreviation of circular mil.
CMIP Acronym for Common Management Information
Protocol.
CMIS Acronym for Common Management Information
Services.
CML 1. Abbreviation of computer-managed learning.
2. Abbreviation of current-mode logic.
CMOS Acronym for complementary metal-oxide semicon--
ductor. 1. A widely used semiconductor technology that
combines PMOS and NMOS transistors on a single silicon
chip ina manner which yields high speed combined with
low power consumption. Used, for instance, in computer
memory chips. Also called CMOS technology. 2. A chip
incorporating CMOS (1). 3. Same as CMOS memory.
CMOS-based Abbreviation of complementary metal-oxide
semiconductor-based. A semiconductor technology based
on CMOS (1).
CMOS battery Abbreviation of complementary metal-oxide
semiconductor battery. A battery which supplies power to
the CMOS memory (1) of a computer.
CMOS chip Abbreviation of complementary metal-oxide
semiconductor chip. A chip incorporating CMOS (1).
CMOS device Abbreviation of complementary metal-oxide
semiconductor device. A semiconductor device incorporat-
ing CMOS (1).
CMOS memory Abbreviation of complementary metal-oxide
semiconductor memory. Also called CMOS (3). 1. A bat-
tery-backed memory used in a computer, to store the infor-
mation necessary to boot up, in addition to the date and
time. 2. Computer memory using CMOS (1).
CMOS RAM Abbreviation of complementary metal-oxide
semiconductor random-access memory. Computer RAM
utilizing CMOS (1).
CMOS random-access memory Same as CMOS RAM.
CMOS setup Abbreviation of complementary metal-oxide
semiconductor setup. A system configuration utility via
which the settings of the CMOS memory (1) may be ad-
justed. It is usually accessed by pressing the appropriate key
during booting.
CMOS technology Abbreviation of complementary metal-
oxide semiconductor technology. Same as CMOS (1).
CMR 1. Abbreviation of common-mode rejection. 2. Ab-
breviation of cosmic microwave radiation.
CMRR Abbreviation of common-mode rejection ratio.
CMRS Abbreviation of commercial mobile radio service.
CMS Abbreviation of color management system.
CMV Abbreviation of common-mode voltage.
CMY Abbreviation of cyan-magenta-yellow.
CMYK Abbreviation of cyan-magenta-yellow-black.
118 coaxial cable
CNAM Abbreviation of calling name delivery.
CNC Abbreviation of computer numerical control, or com-
puterized numerical control.
CNG tone Abbreviation of calling tone. An 1100 Hz tone
emitted by a calling fax terminal to indicate the desire to
send a fax. The proper response is a CED tone.
CNR Abbreviation of carrier-to-noise ratio.
CNS Abbreviation of complementary network services.
CO Abbreviation of central office.
Co Chemical symbol for cobalt.
co-channel interference Also spelled cochannel interfer-
ence. Also called shared-channel interference. 1. Inter-
ference arising from two or more signals of the same type
being transmitted via the same communications channel.
2. Interference arising from two or more simultaneous trans-
missions over the same communications channel.
CO laser Abbreviation of carbon monoxide laser.
co-location Same as colocation.
co-location center Same as colocation (1). Also spelled
colocation center.
co-location facility Same as colocation (1). Also spelled
colocation facility.
co-location site Same as colocation (1). Also spelled coloea-
tion site.
co-processor Same as coprocessor.
co-resident Same as coresident.
co-routine Same as coroutine.
coarse adjustment The adjustment of a setting in relatively
large and/or approximate increments. This contrasts with a
fine adjustment, in which the changes are relatively small
and/or more precise.
coarse control An adjustable component which makes coarse
adjustments.
coast station A land station within a maritime mobile service.
Used for communication to ships and other coast stations.
coastal bending A change in direction of a radio wave as it
crosses a coastline. It usually only affects ground waves.
Also called coastal refraction, land effect, or shoreline ef-
fect.
coastal refraction Same as coastal bending.
coated cathode A cathode which is coated with a metal-oxide
compound, such as thorium oxide, in order to enhance its
electron emissions. Also called oxide-coated cathode.
coated filament A filament which is coated with a metal-
oxide compound to enhance its properties. A coated cathode
is an example. Also called oxide-coated filament.
coating 1. A one or more materials which are applied as an
outer, finishing, or protective layer. For instance, an elec-
troplated layer, or a magnetic coating on recording tape.
2. The application of a coating (l).
coax Same as coaxial cable.
coax cable Same as coaxial cable.
coax line Same as coaxial cable.
coaxial antenna A vertical antenna fed by a coaxial line, in
which the inner conductor of the coaxial cable is extended Y4
wavelength, while the outer conductor which formerly en-
closed it is folded back by Y4 wavelength. Also called sleeve
antenna.
coaxial attenuator An attenuator suitable for use with coaxial
cables.
coaxial cable A concentric two-conductor transmission line in
which the center conductor is surrounded by a dielectric,
which is surrounded by the second conductor, which in tum
is surrounded by the protective jacket. The center conductor
is also known as inner conductor, while the other is known
coaxial cable connector 119
as the outer conductor. Such cables produce almost no ex-
ternal fields, nor are they too susceptible to them. This
makes them well-suited for a variety of applications, includ-
ing their use in transmitting cable TV, linking computer
networks, and for various radio applications. Also called
coax, coax cable, coaxial line, coax line, coaxial transmis-
sion line, concentric cable, concentric line, or cable (3).
coaxial cable connector Same as coaxial connector.
coaxial capacitor Same as cylindrical capacitor.
coaxial cavity A cylindrical resonant cavity in which a center
rod is in contact with reflecting surfaces and/or a tuning pis-
ton. Also called coaxial resonating cavity, or coaxial cav-
ity resonator.
coaxial cavity resonator Same as coaxial cavity.
coaxial connector A fixture which enables connection of a
coaxial cable between electrical devices. Such a fixture may
be either a coaxial jack or a coaxial plug. There are various
types, including BNC connectors, and F connectors. Also
called coaxial terminal, or coaxial cable connector.
coaxial diode A diode suitable for use with coaxial cables.
coaxial filter 1. A filter suitable for use with coaxial cables.
2. A filter composing a section of a coaxial cable.
coaxial jack A connector designed to match the appropriate
coaxial plug, in order to make a connection. A coaxial plug
is inserted into a coaxial jack.
coaxial line Same as coaxial cable.
coaxlal loudspeaker Same as coaxial speaker.
coaxial plug A connector designed to match the appropriate
coaxial jack, in order to make a connection. A coaxial plug
is inserted into a coaxial jack.
coaxial receptacle A receptacle, such as a coaxial jack, which
enables connection of a coaxial cable. A coaxial receptacle,
for instance, may be found in the back of a satellite decoder,
or protruding from a wall.
coaxial relay A relay suitable for use with a coaxial cable,
without appreciably changing the properties of the line.
coaxial resonating cavity Same as coaxial cavity.
coaxial speaker A speaker system which incorporates two
concentric speaker units, usually consisting of a tweeter
mounted within a woofer, so that the sound radiates from a
common axis. Also called coaxial loudspeaker.
coaxial splitter A coaxial connector which divides a signal so
that it will travel over multiple paths. Used, for instance, as
an antenna splitter.
coaxial stub A short length of coaxial cable used to branch
another coaxial cable, usually appreciably changing the
properties of the line.
coaxial switch An switch suitable for use with a coaxial ca-
ble, without appreciably changing the properties of the line.
coaxial terminal Same as coaxial connector.
coaxial transmission line Same as coaxial cable.
coaxial wavemeter A wavemeter incorporating an inner
conductor in its central axis, upon which a sliding disk
moves for tuning. Used, for instance, at microwave fre-
quencies.
COB Abbreviation of chip-on-board.
cobalt A shining steel-gray metallic element whose atomic
number is 27. It is hard, ductile, reactive, ferromagnetic,
and has about 20 known isotopes, of which one is stable. Its
applications in electronics include its use in certain cermets,
for plating, and in semiconductors. Its chemical symbol is
Co.
cobalt potassium cyanide Yellow crystals used in electronics
research.
cobalt silicide A chemical compound used as a semiconduc-
tor.
code converter
cobaltic-cobaltous oxide Black or gray crystals whose
chemical formula is C0 304 Used in semiconductors. Also
called cobaltosic oxide.
cobaltic potassium nitrite Yellow crystals used in ceramics.
cobaltite A silver-white to grayish mineral whose chemical
formula is CoAsS. Used in ceramics.
cobaltosic oxide Same as cobaltic-cobaltous oxide.
cobaltous ammonium sulfate Red crystals used in ceramics
and for cobalt plating.
cobaltous carbonate Red crystals whose chemical formula is
CoC03 Used in ceramics.
cobaltous chloride Pale blue crystals whose chemical for-
mula is CoCh. Used in electroplating.
cobaltous hydroxide A blue-green or rose-red powder whose
chemical formula is CO(OH)l. Used in storage-battery elec-
trodes.
cobaltous oxide A grayish powder whose chemical formula is
CoO. Used in ceramics and semiconductors.
cobaltous sulfate A red powder whose chemical formula is
CoS04 Used in storage batteries, for plating, and in ceram-
ics.
COBOL Acronym for common business-oriented language.
A high-level programming language which has existed for
over four decades, yet is still popular in business applica-
tions. It tends to be wordy, making for longer, yet more un-
derstandable, programs.
COC Abbreviation of chip-on-chip.
COC technology Abbreviation of chip-on-chip technology.
cochannel interference Same as co-channel interference.
Cockcroft-Walton accelerator A high-voltage DC particle
accelerator which incorporates an array of rectifiers which
rectify the lower AC voltage input, and capacitors which are
charged by the DC. Also called Cockcroft-Walton genera-
tor.
Cockcroft-Walton generator Same as Cockcroft-Walton
accelerator.
codan Acronym for carrier-operated device antinoise.
code 1. A system of symbols or values, accompanied by rules
used to represent information, such as data, and to convert it
from one form to another. For instance, ASCII code. 2. A
set of computer program instructions. Also called program
code, or computer code (1). Also, to write such instruc-
tions. 3. A set of programming instructions and statements
that are expressed in a form suitable for input into an assem-
bler, compiler, or translator, which in tum transforms said
code into machine code. Such code is usually written in a
high-level or assembly language which is understandable by
humans, while only machine code can be directly executed
by the CPU. Also called source code. 4. To scramble in-
formation, such as data, in a manner which only those with a
key can decipher. Usually used for security purposes. Also
called encode (2), encrypt, or scramble (1). S. Information
which scrambled, or encoded. 6. The key to unscramble
coded information. Also called key (2).
code character A character utilized to represent information
within a code, and which has been derived in accordance
with this code. For instance, a numeric value representing a
text character in ASCII code.
code character set The complete set of characters utilized in
a code.
code conversion 1. A transformation of information, such as
data, from one code to another. 2. A translation of program
instructions between forms. For instance, between a pro-
gramming language and machine language.
code converter Hardware or software which executes code
conversions.
code density 120
code density The amount of program instructions per unit of
available memory space. When total memory is limited,
code density should be higher.
code-division multiaccess Same as CDMA
code-division multiple access Same as CDMA.
code element A symbol or value which serves to compose a
given code. For instance, in machine code, the elements are
ones and zeroes.
Code-Excited Linear Prediction A speech-compression
algorithm that provides high quality audio while utilizing
very little bandwidth. Used, for example, for transmission
of voice over packet-switching networks. Its abbreviation is
CELP. Also called Code-Excited Linear Predictive,
Code-Excited Linear Prediction algorithm, Code-Excited
Linear Prediction coding, or Code-Excited Linear Pre-
diction compression.
Code-Excited Linear Prediction algorithm Same as Code-
Excited Linear Prediction. Its abbreviation is CELP algo-
rithm.
Code-Excited Linear Prediction coding Same as Code-
Excited Linear Prediction. Its abbreviation is CELP cod-
ing.
Code-Excited Linear Prediction compression Same as
Code-Excited Linear Prediction. Its abbreviation is
CELP compression.
Code-Excited Linear Predictive Same as Code-Excited
Linear Prediction.
code form That which is presented as a code. The output of
an encoder is in code form.
code generator 1. A computer program that enables the gen-
eration of the desired output code. For instance, converting
a program written in COBOL into machine code. 2. A de-
vice which generates a coded output.
code ringing Telephone ringing patterns which convey in-
formation. For instance, varying combinations of long and
short rings indicating which individual user of a party line is
being called.
code set The complete set of symbols or other representations
utilized in a code.
code snippet A small piece of programming code. Also
called snippet.
code system The system a code uses to convert information
from one form into another.
codec 1. Acronym for coder-decoder. 2. Acronym for com-
pressor-decompressor.
coded Also called encoded. 1. Information, such as data,
which is in the form of a code. Also called encrypted (1).
2. Information, such as data, which has been scrambled in
some manner. Also called encrypted (2). 3. Programs or
program instructions which have been written.
coded data Data which has been coded (1) or coded (2).
May be used, for instance, where privacy or security is a
concern. Also called encoded data, or scrambled data.
coded decimal digit A decimal digit expressed by a given
pattern of zeroes and ones.
coded digit 1. A digit expressed by a given pattern of zeroes
and ones. 2. A digit which has been transformed by a code.
coded program A computer program expressed in machine
language.
coded representation Information which has been converted
into another form, through the use of a code.
coded signal A signal which has been coded (1) or coded (2).
May be used, for instance, where privacy or security is a
concern. Also called encoded signal, or scrambled signal.
coded speech Speech which has been coded (2), so that it can
only be understood with a receiver with the proper circuits
and settings. May be used, for instance, where eavesdrop-
cogging
ping is a concern. Also called scrambled speech, or en-
coded speech.
coded stop In a computer program or routine, a stop instruc-
tion.
coder That which generates a code.
coder-decoder Hardware andlor software which converts an
analog input into a digital output, and vice versa. For in-
stance, that which performs conversions between analog
video and digital video. Its acronym is codec.
coding 1. The process of making a conversion through the use
of a code. 2. In computer programming, a list of operations
required to perform a given routine.
coding system The system a code uses to convert information
from one form into another.
coefficient 1. A constant in an algebraic equation, as opposed
to a variable. For instance, in the expression 3x, 3 is the co-
efficient, and x is the variable. 2. A numerical measure that
describes a physical or chemical property, and that is a con-
stant under specified conditions. For instance, a coefficient
of attenuation or of thermal expansion.
coefficient of absorption Also called absorption ratio, ab-
sorption factor, absorption coefficient, or absorptivity.
1. The proportion of certain wavelengths or energy retained
by a medium to which another has been exposed. 2. The
proportion of certain wavelengths or energy retained by a
medium to which another has been exposed, per unit of area
or thickness.
coefficient of attenuation A rating for a transmission medium
through which a wave passes, such as a cable, which gives
the rate of amplitude decrease in the direction of travel.
Also called attenuation coefficient, attenuation factor, or
attenuation rate.
coefficient of coupling Same as coupling coefficient.
coefficient of reflection Also called reflection coefficient,
mismatch factor, reflection factor, reflectance (1), or re-
flectivity. 1. The ratio of the amplitude of a wave reflected
from a surface, to the amplitude of the same wave incident
upon the surface. 2. The ratio of the current delivered to a
load whose impedance is not matched to the source, to the
current that would be delivered to the same load if its im-
pedance were fully matched.
coefficient of thermal expansion The ratio of a change in
dimensions to a rise in temperature. This must be factored
in, for instance, when affixing semiconductors devices, such
as chips, to substrates. Its abbreviation is CTE.
coefficient of transmission Also called transmission coeffi-
cient, transmission factor, or transmission ratio. 1. The
ratio of the flux transmitted by a body, to the flux incident
upon the same body. 2. The ratio of the radiant energy
transmitted from a body, to the total radiant energy incident
upon the same body.
coerclmeter An instrument which measures the magnetic
intensity of a magnet or electromagnet.
coercive force The magnetic field which must be applied to a
previously magnetized ferromagnetic material, in order to
reduce to 0 the residual magnetism of said material. Usually
expressed in oersteds. Also called magnetic coercive force.
coercivity For a given ferromagnetic material, the ease or
difficulty in it being magnetized or demagnetized. A mate-
rial exhibiting low coercivity is easy to magnetize and de-
magnetize, while a material with high coercivity is hard to
magnetize and demagnetize. Also called magnetic coerciv-
ity.
COF Abbreviation of chip-on-film.
COG Abbreviation of chip-on-glass.
cogging Non-uniform rotation of an electric motor, due to
variations in magnetic flux as rotors move past stators. It is
especially noticeable at low to very low motor speeds.
cognitive machine
cognitive machine 1. A machine capable of acquiring and
using knowledge through perception, learning, and other
means. 2. A machine whose knowledge includes self-
awareness.
coherence Also spelled coherency. 1. For two or more waves
of a single frequency, a definite phase relationship. Two
waves, for instance, are in phase if their crests and troughs
meet at the same point at the same time. Interference pat-
terns may be formed by radiation emitted by coherent
sources, and high levels of coherence characterize laser ra-
diation. 2. Any form of temporal or phase correlation.
3. Clarity or intelligibility, as in a clear reception of a voice
transmission.
coherency Same as coherence.
coherent Characterized by coherence.
coherent bundle An assembly of optical fibers in which the
relative spatial coordinates of the individual fibers are the
same at both ends. Such a bundle serves, for instance, to
transmit images. Also called coherent fiber bundle, or
aligned bundle.
coherent carrier A carrier wave whose frequency and phase
have a definite relationship with the frequency and phase of
a reference signal.
coherent demodulation Same as coherent detection.
coherent detection Demodulation which depends on the
phase of the carrier signal. Also called coherent demodula-
tion.
coherent detector A detector whose output signal amplitude
depends on the phase, not the intensity, of its input signal.
Used, for instance, in radars which only display moving tar-
gets.
coherent echo In radars, an echo whose phase and amplitude
at a given range is relatively constant. Such echoes may be
produced, for instance, by a building or a ship.
coherent tiber bundle Same as coherent bundle.
coherent light Light in which there is a definite phase rela-
tionship between any given points of the waves composing
it. All waves have the same, or nearly the same, wave-
length. Such light travels in a completely, or almost com-
pletely, parallel beam, and mayor may not be in the visible
range. Lasers produce coherent light.
coherent light detection and ranging Its acronym is colidar.
A radar system in which the beam of a laser is utilized to
track objects. Also known as laser radar, or ladar.
coherent light source A source, such as a laser, of coherent
light.
coherent oscillator An oscillator whose output may serve as a
coherent reference. Used, for instance, in radars. Its acro-
nym is coho.
coherent-pulse operation Pulse operation in which there is a
fixed-phase relationship between each pulse and the next.
coherent-pulse radar A radar system in which a coherent
oscillator provides a phase reference against which the phase
of scanned objects may be compared.
coherent pulses Pulses which are in a fixed-phase relation-
ship with each other.
coherent radiation Radiation in which there is a definite
phase relationship between any given points of a cross sec-
tion of the beam.
coherent reference A signal which serves as a reference for
other signals, so that they can be phase-locked to establish
and maintain coherence. Such a signal usually has a stable,
or nearly stable, frequency. A coherent oscillator may serve
as the source of such a signal.
coherent scattering Scattering in which there is a definite
phase relationship between the incident and dispersed waves
or particles.
121 cold
coherent signal 1. In radars, a signal whose phase is constant,
and which is used for comparison to the phase of a scanned
object. The phase shift determines the range of the scanned
object. 2. A signal whose phase is constant.
coherent source A source of coherent waves or radiation.
Interference patterns may be formed by radiation emitted by
coherent sources.
coherent transponder A transponder in which a definite
relationship is maintained in the phase and frequency of the
input and output signals.
coherent waves Two or more waves of a single frequency
with a definite phase relationship.
coho Acronym for coherent oscillator.
COHO Same as coho.
coil One or more conductors wound in a series of turns, so as
to introduce inductance, or to produce a magnetic field in an
electric circuit. A coil may be wound, for example, around a
ferromagnetic core, an insulating support, or around air.
Used, for instance, in transformers, electromagnets, sole-
noids, motors, speakers, and so on. Also known as electric
coil, inductance (3), inductance coil, inductor, or mag-
netic coil (1).
coil antenna A directional antenna consisting of a wire coil
with one or more turns. Used, for instance, in radio direc-
tion finders and portable radio receivers. Also called loop
antenna, or frame antenna.
coil form An insulated spool upon which a coil is wound.
Also called bobbin (1).
coil loading The placement of loading coils along a transmis-
sion line at regular intervals. This improves the transmis-
sion characteristics of the line.
coil neutralization A method of neutralizing an amplifier, in
which capacitance cancels inductance in the feedback cir-
cuit. Also called inductive neutralization, or shunt neu-
tralization.
coil winding A layer of conductors within a coil. Also, a
complete winding, such as a primary or secondary coil.
Also, the winding of such a layer or winding.
coin battery Same as coin cell.
coin cell A small primary cell that uses an alkaline electrolyte
solution, usually potassium hydroxide. Used mostly for
small devices such as hearing aids and watches. Also called
coin battery, or button battery.
coincidence The occurrence of events or phenomena simulta-
neously, or within a given time interval. For instance, the
arrival of two signals at the same time.
coincidence amplifier An amplifier which delivers an output
signal only when two or more input signals are applied si-
multaneously.
coincidence circuit Also called coincidence gate, coinci-
dence detector, or coincidence counter. 1. A circuit with
two or more inputs, which delivers an output pulse only if
all inputs receive a pulse simultaneously, or within a given
time interval. 2. A circuit with two or more inputs, which
delivers an output pulse only if a predetermined combination
of inputs receive a pulse simultaneously, or within a given
time interval.
coincidence counter Same as coincidence circuit.
coincidence detector Same as coincidence circuit.
coincidence gate Same as coincidence circuit.
coincident-current selection Within an array of magnetic
storage cells, the selection of a specific cell by means of the
simultaneous application of two or more currents.
cold 1. Describing a component, circuit, or device which is
disconnected from a source of voltage. Also known as dead
(1). 2. Describing a circuit or component which is at ground
potential. Also known as dead (2).
COLD
COLD Abbreviation of Computer Output to Laser Disc.
cold backup A backup performed while the data being dupli-
cated is not in use. This contrasts with a hot backup, in
which an application is using the data. Also called offline
backup.
cold boot The starting of a computer by turning on its power.
Many program failures are resolved through turning off a
computer then turning it back on again. Also called cold
start, hard boot, or startup (2).
cold cathode A cathode whose function does not require it to
have an applied heat. This contrasts with a hot cathode,
which requires an applied heat to function. An electron tube
incorporating a cold cathode is called a cold-cathode tube.
cold-cathode fluorescent lamp A fluorescent lamp that can
be used as a source for back-lit liquid-crystal displays used
in cameras, computers, and the such. Its abbreviation is
CCFL. Also called cold-cathode fluorescent tube.
cold-cathode fluorescent tube Same as cold-cathode fluo-
rescent lamp. Its abbreviation is CCFT.
cold-cathode rectifier A gas-filted rectifier tube which incor-
porates a cold-cathode. Also catted gas-filled rectifier.
cold-cathode tube An electron tube which incorporates a cold
cathode. Examples include phototubes and mercury-pool
rectifiers.
cold chamber A chamber where a low temperature is main-
tained, within certain strict limits. May be used, for in-
stance, to test devices which witt likely be subjected to such
temperatures.
cold-chamber test A test performed in a cold chamber.
cold emission The emission of electrons from a surface,
through the application of a strong electric field. Such a sur-
face may be that of a solid or a liquid. Used, for instance, in
field-emission microscopy. Also called field emission.
cold junction The junction between thermocouple wires and
the conductors leading to a measuring instrument. This
junction is normally kept at room temperature.
cold light Light produced without the concomitant generation
of a significant amount of heat. Bioluminescence and elec-
troluminescence are two sources of such light.
cold soldering 1. Soldering performed without heat. 2. Sol-
dering performed without sufficient heat, which may result
in a bad connection.
cold start Same as cold boot.
cold swap A swap, such as that of a hard drive, in which the
computer must be off before making the exchange.
cold welding Welding performed without heat. Pressure
welding, for example, may occur without heat.
Cold Fusion A suite utilized to build Web sites and deliver
Web pages to users.
colldar Acronym for coherent light detection and ranging.
collaboration products Hardware and/or software products
which enable multiple users to interact jointly, with a mini-
mum of system-generated obstructions. Useful, for instance,
in videoconferencing.
collaboration standards Standards which enable multiple
users to interact jointly, with a minimum of system-
generated obstructions. Common Intermediate Format is an
example of such a standard.
collapsed backbone A network topology in which a backbone
is the hub to which all subnetworks are connected. Used,
for instance, in medium-sized LANs. Also called backbone
(2).
collector 1. In a bipolar junction transistor, the region into
which charge carriers flow from the base. The output of
such a transistor is usually taken from the collector. Also,
the electrode attached to this region. Also known as collec-
tor region, or collector electrode. Its symbol is C. 2. In
122 colloidal graphite
certain electron tubes, such as klystrons, an electrode which
collects electrons or ions after they have performed their
useful function.
collector capacitance In a bipolar junction transistor, the
capacitance associated with the collector junction.
collector current In a bipolar junction transistor, the current
flowing through the collector region.
collector cutoff In a bipolar junction transistor, the operating
condition under which the collector current is reduced to its
residual current.
collector-cutotT current The residual current flowing under
collector cutoff operating conditions. Also called cutoff
current.
collector emciency In a bipolar junction transistor, the ratio
of the useful power output to the power input. Usuallyex-
pressed as a percentage.
collector electrode Same as collector (1).
collector junction In a bipolar junction transistor, the semi-
conductor junction between the base and collector regions.
collector region Same as collector (1).
collector resistance In a bipolar junction transistor, the resis-
tance of the collector junction.
collector ring A conductive rotating ring which works in
conjunction with one or more stationary brushes, in order to
maintain a continuous electrical connection. Used, for in-
stance, in an AC generator. Also called slip ring.
collector voltage In a bipolar junction transistor, the DC
supply voltage applied between the base and collector.
collimate To make parallel. For instance, to convert a diver-
gent beam of light into one that is parallel.
collimated beam A parallel, or nearly parallel, beam of radia-
tion or particles. Such a beam has minimal convergence or
divergence.
collimation The process of making parallel. For instance, the
conversion of a divergent beam of light into one that is par-
allel.
collimator A lens or device which collimates.
collinear antenna array A directional antenna consisting of a
series of elements arranged end to end, horizontally or verti-
cally. The elements are usually of the same type. Also
known as collinear array, or linear array.
collinear array Same as collinear antenna array.
collision 1. A powerful and immediate contact between two or
more things. 2. Any contact between two or more things.
This includes virtual contact, such as that of images on a
computer screen. 3. In a communications network, an event
where two or more stations transmit simultaneously over the
same channel. This may result in data being garbled or lost.
collision avoidance 1. Any mechanism employed to avoid
collisions (1). 2. In robotics, mechanisms utilized to avoid
collisions (2). For instance, the use of proximity sensors.
3. The mechanisms by which networks, such as Ethernet,
avoid collisions (3).
collision-avoidance system 1. A mechanism utilized to avoid
collisions (1) between objects. For example, the use of ra-
dars to avoid collisions between aircraft. 2. A mechanism
utilized to avoid collisions (2) between objects. For in-
stance, the use of proximity sensors in robots to avoid con-
tact with surrounding objects. Its abbreviation is CAS.
collision detection 1. Any mechanism employed to detect
collisions (1). 2. In robotics, mechanisms utilized to detect
collisions (2). For instance, the use of contact sensors.
3. The mechanisms by which networks, such as Ethernet,
detect collisions (3).
colloidal graphite Finely powdered graphite, which is sus-
pended in a solution. Used, for instance, to coat electron
tubes.
colocation 123
colocation Also spelled co-location. 1. A physical location
within the facilities of a telecommunications company,
which interconnects the equipment of a customer or com-
petitor. This has benefits such as reducing the cost of opera-
tions, or being able to provide superior service. Used, for
instance, by telephone companies or Internet providers.
Also called colocation center, colocatlon facility, coloca-
tion site, or physical colocation. 2. The interconnection of
the equipment of a customer or competitor to the facilities of
a telecommunications company, without such equipment be-
ing within a physical location of the latter. Also called vir-
tual colocation.
colocation center Same as colocation (1). Also spelled co-
location center.
colocation facility Same as colocatlon (1). Also spel1ed co-
location facility.
colocation site Same as colocation (1). Also spelled co-
location site.
colog Abbreviation of cologarithm.
cologarithm The logarithm of the reciprocal ofa number. For
example, the cologarithm of 2 is the logarithm of 0.5. Its
abbreviation is colog.
color Characteristics of light, such as wavelength, which
enable visual perception to distinguish degrees of hue, satu-
ration, and brightness/lightness. Brightness applies to light
sources, and lightness to objects.
color balance In a color TV receiver with a three-gun picture
tube, the adjustment of the electron beam emissions to com-
pensate for any differences in the light-emitting characteris-
tics of the red, green, and blue phosphors on the screen.
color-bar code A bar code whose parallel vertical bars may
be of two or more colors.
color-bar generator A device which produces the signal used
to produce a color-bar test pattern on the screen ofa TV.
color-bar pattern Same as color-bar test pattern.
color-bar test pattern A pattern of colored bars used to
evaluate color TV transmission and reception. Also called
color-bar pattern.
color bits The number of bits allotted per pixel, to define the
colors to be displayed. For instance, if 24 bits are assigned,
then over 16.7 million colors may be displayed.
color breakup The separation of the color components of a
TV image. This may originate before transmission, or may
be caused by rapid changes in the viewing conditions, such
as watching while blinking in quick succession.
color burst In a TV receiver, a COlor-synchronizing signal at
the beginning of each scanning line, which establishes a fre-
quency and phase reference for the chrominance signal.
Also called color burst signal, color-sync signal, burst (4),
or reference burst.
color burst signal Same as color burst.
color carrier Same as color subcarrier.
color-carrier reference Same as color-subcarrier reference.
color channel In color TV, the channel carrying the color
signal.
color code 1. A system, utilizing markings such as color dots
or bands, to indicate key information such as values, multi-
pliers, and tolerances for components such as resistors and
capacitors. 2. A system utilizing color codes to identify
terminals, leads, or polarity.
color coder In a TV transmitter, a circuit or device which
transforms the separate red, green, and blue camera signals
into color-difference signals, and combines these with the
chrominance subcarrier. Also called color encoder, en-
coder (2), or matrix (3).
color coding 1. The use of different colors to identify and
categorize. An example is a color code. 2. The coding of a
color matching
control, such as a button or knob, by a distinctive color. For
example, an on/off button of a TV being red, while the vol-
ume control buttons are green. The colors which are usually
most effectively differentiated are blue, green, orange, red,
and yellow. Such coding may also be used in combination
with size and shape coding.
color comparator An instrument which uses one or more
photoelectric devices to compare a color with a given stan-
dard. Also called photoelectric color comparator.
color contamination In color TV, an error in color reproduc-
tion caused by incomplete separation of the red, green, and
blue components of a color picture. Such errors may be
electronic, optical, or mechanical in nature.
color control Same as color-saturation control.
color decoder In a TV receiver, a circuit or device which
transforms the color-difference signals into separate red,
green, and blue signals. Also called decoder (2), or matrix
(4).
color depth The number of bits used to define a pixel in an
image, as determined by the hardware and software. For in-
stance, a 24-bit video adapter allows for over 16.7 million
colors to be displayed. Also called bit depth, or pixel
depth.
color-difference signal In a color TV receiver, a signal which
is added to the luminance signal to produce one of the three
primary signals. For example, in ROB there are three color-
difference signals, which are the R- Y signal, the G-Y signal,
and the B- Y signal, where R is red, G is green, 8 is blue,
and Y is luminance. Each of these signals feeds the red,
green, and blue channels respectively.
color edging In a color TV receiver, extraneous colors occur-
ring at the boundaries between zones with different colors,
or along the edges of objects. Also called edging.
color encoder Same as color coder.
color fidelity The degree of faithfulness with which colors are
reproduced, as compared to the original source.
color filter A sheet of a material, such as plastic or glass,
which selectively passes or absorbs given wavelengths of
light.
color flicker In a TV receiver, brief and irregular fluctuations
in a displayed image, occurring as a result of unwanted fluc-
tuations in the chrominance and/or luminance signals.
color fringing In a color TV receiver, false colors occurring
along the borders of objects. Small objects, for instance,
may appear to be divided into various colors.
color graphics Computer graphics which are displayed in
color.
color killer In a color TV receiver, a circuit which disables
the chrominance circuits when a black-and-white signal is
being received. For instance, such a circuit may seek a color
burst signal, and if there is none, color decoding is shut off.
Also called color-killer circuit, color-killer stage, or killer
stage.
color-killer circuit Same as color killer.
color-killer stage Same as color killer.
color kinescope Same as color picture tube.
color management system A system utilized to help match
colors so that they appear essentially the same when dis-
played or presented on different devices or mediums. Used,
for instance, to maintain consistency between the colors pre-
sented by a monitor and those provided by a printer. Its ab-
breviation is eMS.
color match The complete correspondence between two
colors. This may be achieved, for instance, through color
matching.
color matching 1. The selection of colors which correspond
exactly with other colors. An instrument may be used for
color monitor 124
this, or the naked eye with the assistance of materials of
varying colors that serve for comparison. 2. The assuring
that a color in one medium appears the same after conver-
sion to another.
color monitor A 'display monitor which can display multiple
colors. For example, an ROB monitor.
color oscillator In a color TV receiver, a crystal oscillator
which generates the chrominance-subcarrier frequency,
which is set at 3.579545 MHz. This signal is used for com-
parison to the signal of the same frequency sent by the
transmitter. Also called chroma oscillator, color-
subcarrier oscillator, or chrominance-subcarrier oscilla-
tor.
color phase In a color TV receiver, the difference in phase
between a chrominance signal and the chrominance-carrier
reference. The proper color phase is necessary for the
proper reproduction of colors.
color picture signal The signal that contains the color infor-
mation displayed on a color picture tube.
color picture tube A CRT which produces the color images
displayed on color TV receivers and computer monitors. A
three-gun color picture tube emits three beams of electrons,
which are focused and directed towards color phosphors,
which in turn produce the color images on the screen. Also
called color kinescope, color television picture tube, color
TV picture tube, or tricolor picture tube.
color primaries Colors which are combined in an additive
mixture to yield a full range of colors. Red, green, and blue
are usually used as the additive primary colors. They are
called this way because they themselves are not formed by
the combination of other colors. Also called additive pri-
mary colors, primary colors, or primaries.
color printer A computer printer whose output may be in
color. For example, a cyan-magenta-yellow-black printer.
color purity 1. For a given color, the degree to which all
unwanted components are excluded. Such a color only con-
tains the proper proportion of the desired primary colors.
Also called purity (4). 2. The extent to which a color is not
mixed with other colors. Said especially of a primary color
which is not mixed with other primary colors. Also called
purity (3).
color registration The superimposition of varying propor-
tions of the three primary colors, so as to form the desired
composite color. Also called color superimposition.
color response The sensitivity an instrument or device has to
light. as a function of its wavelength.
color sampling frequency Same as color sampling rate.
color sampling rate In a color TV receiver, the rate at which
each of the primary colors is sampled. Also called color
sampling frequency.
color saturation The extent to which a given color lacks a
white component. 100% saturation means there is no white
present. It is a measure of the vividness of hue. Also called
saturation (4), or chroma (3).
color-saturation control In a color TV, a device, such as a
potentiometer, which adjusts the level of color saturation.
This determines how vivid the hues of the colors are in the
displayed picture. If the chroma control is set to zero, the
image becomes monochrome. Also called color control, or
chroma control.
color scanner A scanner which is able to accept a color input,
and digitize it accordingly.
color sensing The use of image sensors to differentiate be-
tween colors. Used, for instance, in robotics.
color separation The process of separating a color image into
the four basic ink colors, which are cyan, magenta, yellow,
and black, each forming a color layer. The four color layers
are printed separately, then all are superimposed to give the
impression of many more than four colors.
color TV receiver
color signal In color TV, an electric signal, such as a chromi-
nance signal, which contains the information necessary to
control the ultimately displayed color images.
color spectrum Within the electromagnetic spectrum, the
range of frequencies or wavelengths which encompass visi-
ble light. The wavelengths of the color spectrum range from
about 400 nanometers for violet light, to about 750 nanome-
ters for red light.
color STN Abbreviation of color super-twist nematic. A
technology used in color STN displays.
color STN display Abbreviation of color super-twist nematic
display. A color twisted nematic display in which the crys-
tals are twisted from 180 to 270. This provides greater con-
trast, and may be used, for instance, in portable computers,
PDAs, or cellular telephones.
color subcarrier In color TV, the carrier whose sidebands are
added to the luminance signal, in order to convey the color
information. The frequency of this carrier signal is set at
3.579545 MHz. Also called color carrier, chrominance
carrier, chrominance subcarrier, or subcarrier (2).
color-subcarrler oscillator Same as color oscillator.
color-subcarrier reference In color TV, a continuous signal
that has the same frequency as the chrominance subcarrier,
and which is also fixed in phase with respect to the color
burst. It serves as a phase reference for modulation and de-
modulation of a chrominance signal. Also called color-
carrier reference, chrominance-carrier reference, or
chrominance-subcarrier reference.
color super-twist nematic Same as color STN.
color super-twist nematic display Same as color STN dis-
play.
color superimposition Same as color registration.
color-sync signal Same as color burst.
color synchronizing signal Same as color burst.
color television Same as color TV.
color television picture tube Same as color picture tube.
color television receiver Same as color TV (2).
color television signal Same as color TV signal.
color television system Same as color TV system.
color television transmitter Same as color TV transmitter.
color TIT Abbreviation of color thin-film transistor. Same
as color TFT LCD.
color TIT display Same as color TIT LCD.
color TIT LCD Abbreviation of color thin-film transistor
liquid-crystal display. A color liquid-crystal display where
each pixel of the screen is powered separately and continu-
ously by a transistor. This provides for a brighter image
with higher contrast than a passive-matrix display. Also
called color TFT display, color TIT, color TIT liquid-
crystal display, color thin-film transistor liquid-crystal
display, or color thin-film transistor.
color TIT liquid-crystal display Same as color TFT LCD.
color tbln-film transistor Same as color TIT LCD.
color thin-film transistor liquid-crystal display Same as
color TIT LCD.
color transmission The transmission of a color signal.
color TV Abbreviation of color television. 1. A system
through which color images are transmitted, then received
and reproduced by TVs, or other devices equipped to do so.
Also called color TV system. 2. A device which reproduces
the images received through a color TV (1). Also called
color TV receiver.
color TV picture tube Abbreviation of color television pic-
ture tube Same as color picture tube.
color TV receiver Abbreviation of color television receiver.
Same as color TV (2).
color TV signal
color TV signal Abbreviation of color television signal. The
signal, containing color images, which a color TV (2) re-
ceives.
color TV system Abbreviation of color television system.
Same as color TV (I).
color TV transmitter Abbreviation of color television
transmitter. An entity or device which transmits color TV
(I) images.
coloration For an audio component, any audible alterations
from the original input signal. Used especially in the con-
text of speakers, where inaccuracies in reproduction repre-
sent coloration.
colorimeter A light-sensitive instrument which measures
color by quantifying the intensities of the three primary col-
ors contained within it. May be used, for instance, for com-
parison with a given standard.
colorimetry The measurement of color and its properties,
such as wavelength and intensity. Colorimetry may be used,
for instance, to determine very small concentrations of cer-
tain substances in a solution, or to detect trace amounts of
metals in finished components.
Colpitts oscillator An oscillator incorporating an active de-
vice and a capacitive voltage divider, and which uses capaci-
tive feedback. The active device may be a vacuum tube, a
bipolar junction transistor, or a field-effect transistor.
columbium Its symbol is Cb. The name columbium, which
still used mostly by metallurgists, is an obsolescent name for
the chemical element niobium.
column A vertical arrangement or series. For instance, a
column of pixels or digits. This contrasts with a row, which
is a horizontal arrangement or series.
column loudspeaker Same as column speaker.
column speaker A speaker design which incorporates two or
more speaker units mounted vertically along the same axis.
When the speaker units are in phase, the produced sound is
reinforced. The sound-distribution pattern of these speakers
is flat in the elevation plane. Also called column loud-
speaker.
.eom On the Internet, a top-level domain name suffix. The
com is an abbreviation of commercial, although the entity
employing this suffix need not be commercial. Also called
dot com.
COM 1. Abbreviation of communications port. 2. Acronym
for Component Object Model. 3. Abbreviation of com-
puter output to microfilm.
COM I Same as COMI.
COM 1 port Same as COMI.
COM 2 Same as COM2.
COM 2 port Same as COM2.
com port Abbreviation of communications port.
com program Abbreviation of communications program.
COMI The logical name given to the first serial port of a
computer. Subsequent ports are COM2, COM3, and so on.
Also called COMl port.
COMl port Same as COMl.
COM2 The logical name given to the second serial port of a
computer. Also called COM2 port.
COM2 port Same as COM2.
coma 1. In a CRT, a form of distortion in which a spot mov-
ing away from the center of the screen forms a comet shape.
May be due, for instance, to a misalignment of the focusing
of the electron beams. 2. In an optical system, a form of ab-
erration in which a point source of light forms a comet
shape. Also known as coma aberration.
coma aberration Same as coma (2).
125 command interpreter
coma lobes In an antenna, such as a dish antenna, a side lobe
that occurs in the radiation or response pattern when only
the reflector is tilted back and forth. Used, for instance, to
eliminate the need to rotate the entire antenna.
comb filter A filter whose frequency response resembles the
teeth of a comb, reflecting its alternately passing and reject-
ing narrow bands. May be used, for instance, in a TV re-
ceiver to separate the luminance and chrominance signals
from the composite video signal.
combination microphone A microphone incorporating two
or more microphones. Each microphone may be of the same
or of a different type.
combination tone A third tone heard when two tones of dif-
ferent frequencies are listened to simultaneously.
combinational circuit A logic circuit whose output at any
given moment depends only on its input values at that same
instant. Such a circuit has no storage capability. Also called
combinatorial circuit, or combinational logic circuit.
combinational logic A logic circuit or element whose output
at any given moment depends only on its input values at that
same instant. This contrasts with sequential logic, in which
the output at any given moment depends, in part, on previ-
ous states. Also called combinatorial logic.
combinational logic circuit Same as combinational circuit.
combinational logic element A logic element whose output
at any given moment depends only on its input values at that
same instant.
combinatorial circuit Same as combinational circuit.
combinatorial logic Same as combinational logic.
combined head A magnetic tape or disk head which both
reads and writes to the magnetic medium. For instance,
such a head in the disk drive of a computer. Also called
read/write head.
combiner A device that receives multiple separate inputs and
unites them to form a common output. Used, for instance, to
combine RF signals.
combiner circuit 1. A circuit that receives multiple separate
inputs and unites them to form a common output. 2. A cir-
cuit that combines the luminance and chrominance signals
with the synchronizing signals in a TV camera.
combo box In a aUI, a text-entry field which also has select-
able default values. An example is a drop-down menu util-
ized for font size selection where a user can select from
stated sizes or type in that desired.
comm port Abbreviation of communications port.
comm program Abbreviation of communications program.
command I. One or more signals which actuate a device. For
instance, a remote control sending RF signals to control a
device. 2. An instruction that causes a computer action. For
instance, pressing a function key to obtain the programmed
result.
command buffer A segment of computer memory utilized to
temporarily store commands. A command buffer is useful
for various functions, such as repeating and editing com-
mands.
command-driven Computer programs which accept com-
mands in the form of special letters, words, or phrases. Al-
though these commands must be learned, such programs are
more flexible than menu-driven programs, in which menus
are used to give commands.
command-driven program A program that is command-
driven.
command-driven system An operating system that is com-
mand-driven.
command interpreter A program, which is part of the operat-
ing system of a computer, that accepts a given number of
commands for the performance of programmed tasks. Such
command language 126
a program may, for example, be used to load an application.
Also called command processor.
command language A computer language which uses a given
number of commands with which it communicates with an
operating system or other program.
command line On a computer display screen, the line where a
command is typed.
command mode A mode of operation in which a computer or
peripheral, such as a modem, accepts commands.
command processor Same as command interpreter.
command prompt The location on a command line where
input may be entered. Such a prompt may blink to indicate
that the computer awaits a command.
command queuing A feature which allows a computer to
accept multiple commands as they are entered, then execute
them in the order received or in a prescribed sequence.
command set 1. The- group of commands a given device,
piece of equipment, program, or system uses. 2. A device
used to send and/or receive commands.
command shell The user interface for a command inter-
preter. Also called shell (2).
command.com Same as COMMAND.COM.
COMMAND.COM The command interpreter for certain
operating systems.
comment In computer programming, a statement, or text, that
is embedded for any purpose except execution. For in-
stance, a clarifying note detailing the rationale behind a
given instruction. Also called remark.
commerce server Same as commercial server.
commercial carrier Same as common carrier.
commercial mobile radio service A business providing a
mobile service, such as cellular telephony, connected to the
public switched telephone network. Its abbreviation is
CMRS.
commercial server A network server that handles business
transactions such as online purchases made with credit
cards, or inventory management. Used extensively over the
Internet. Also called commerce server, or merchant
server.
commercial software Programs, such as packaged software
or those contained in application suites, which are sold to
the general public.
committed information rate In a frame relay network, the
rate at which information is guaranteed to be transmitted,
averaged over a given time interval. If the network has
additional bandwidth available, a user may exceed this
amount. Usually expressed as a multiple of bits per second,
such as 1.544 Mbps. Its abbreviation is eIR.
common 1. Shared by two or more entities, such as circuits,
devices, components, systems, users, and so on. As seen,
for instance, in a common-source connection. 2. Grounded.
As seen, for instance, in a common ground.
common-access method An ANSI standard pertaining to the
interface between SCSI peripherals and SCSI host adapters.
Its acronym is CAM.
common-anode amplifier Same as cathode follower.
common-base amplifier A bipolar junction transistor ampli...
fier whose base electrode, which is usually grounded, is
common to both the input and output circuits. Also called
grounded-base amplifier.
common-base circuit For a bipolar junction transistor, a
mode of operation in which the base electrode, which is
usually grounded, is common to both the input and output
circuits. Also called common-base connection, or
grounded-base connection.
common-base connection Same as common-base circuit.
common-emitter connection
common battery 1. A battery shared by two or more circuits,
devices, components, pieces of equipment, or systems. 2. A
battery which supplies all the DC power of a complete tele-
phone system unit. It is usually located at a central office.
common-battery office A central office which has a common
battery (2).
common business-oriented language Same as COBOL.
common carrier A telecommunications entity, such as a
telephone company, that provides services to the general
public. Common carriers are usually regulated by the ap-
propriate authorities, such as governmental agencies. Also
called commercial carrier, carrier (3), communications
common carrier, common communications carrier, or
public carrier.
common carrier company A company which is a common
carrier.
common-cathode amplifier An electron-tube amplifier in
which the cathode is at ground potential at the operating fre-
quency. The input is applied between the control grid and
ground, and the output is taken from between the plate and
ground. It is a widely-used amplifier circuit. Also called
grounded-cathode amplifier.
common-channel interference Interference resulting from
two stations using the same channel.
common-channel interoffice signaling In telecommunica-
tions, a technique in which control signals are transmitted
over a separate channel, freeing the rest of the channels for
the transmission of voice, data, video, and so on. Its abbre-
viation is CCIS.
common-channel signaling In telecommunications, a tech-
nique in which signaling information is transmitted sepa-
rately from user data, using a channel shared by. the entire
network. Its abbreviation is CCS.
common-collector amplifier A bipolar junction transistor
amplifier in which the collector electrode, which is usually
grounded, is common to both the input and output circuits.
Also called emitter follower.
common-collector circuit Same as common-collector con-
nection.
common-collector connection For a bipolar junction transis-
tor, a mode of operation in which the collector electrode,
which is usually grounded, is common to both the input and
output circuits. Also called common-collector circuit, or
grounded-collector circuit.
common communications carrier Same as common carrier.
Common Desktop Environment A aUI for open systems
provided by the Open Group. Its abbreviation is CDE.
common-drain amplifier A field-effect transistor amplifier
with a common-drain connection, in which the input signal
is applied between the gate and drain, and the output signal
is taken from between the source and drain. Also called
source follower.
common-drain circuit Same as common-drain connection.
common-drain connection For a field-effect transistor, a
mode of operation in which the drain electrode, which is
usually grounded, is common to both the input and output
circuits. Also called common-drain circuit, or grounded-
drain circuit.
common-emitter amplifier A bipolar junction transistor
amplifier in which the emitter electrode, which is usually
grounded, is common to both the input and output circuits.
Also called grounded-emitter amplifier.
common-emitter circuit Same as common-emitter connec-
tion.
common-emitter connection For a bipolar junction transis-
tor, a mode of operation in which the emitter electrode,
which is usually grounded, is common to both the input and
common-gate amplifier 127
output circuits. Also called common-emitter circuit, or
grounded-emitter circuit.
common-gate amplifier A field-effect transistor amplifier in
which the gate electrode, which is usually grounded, is
common to both the input and output circuits. Also called
grounded-gate amplifier.
common-gate circuit Same as common-gate connection.
common-gate connection For a field-effect transistor, a mode
of operation in which the gate electrode, which is usually
grounded, is common to both the input and output circuits.
Also called common-gate circuit, or grounded-gate con-
nection.
Common Gateway Interface Its abbreviation is CGI. In a
World Wide Web server, a specification for the transfer of
data between information servers and other applications,
such as databases, of the server. Such exchanges, for in-
stance, provide for dynamic Web pages to be tailored to the
responses of an Internet user filling out an online order
form, or making a search engine query.
Common Gateway Interface program Same as Common
Gateway Interface script. Its abbreviation is CGI pro-
gram.
Common Gateway Interface script Its abbreviation is CGI
script. An application which is executed by a World Wide
Web server in response to input from an Internet user ac-
cessing certain elements of a Web page, such as those con-
tained in an order form. It is the most common way for Web
servers to interact dynamically with Internet users. A COl
script, for instance, interprets the received information and
transfers it to another program on the server such as a data-
base, and then uses this information to update the Web page
tailored to the user's needs. Also called Common Gateway
Interface program.
common-grid amplifier An electron-tube amplifier in which
the control grid is at ground potential at the operating fre-
quency. Its input is applied between the cathode and
ground, and the output is taken from between the plate and
ground. Also called grounded-grid amplifier.
common ground In a circuit, a shared ground.
common-impedance coupling Coupling occurring between
two or more circuits through inductance or capacitance.
Common Information Model An object-oriented model that
provides a system to describe and share management infor-
mation, while being application-independent and system-
independent. Its abbreviation is CIM.
Common Intermediate Format Its abbreviation is CIF. A
video format which supports both NTSC and PAL signals,
and which is used in videoconferencing. Each CIF format is
defined by its resolution, the original CIF standard specify-
ing 288 lines and 352 pixels per line, at 30 frames per sec-
ond. 16CIF, for instance, supports a resolution of 1408 x
1152, at 30 frames per second.
Common Internet File System An Internet file-sharing pro-
tocol. Its abbreviation is eIFS.
common language A language which is understood by multi-
ple computers and any devices concurrently being used with
them. Useful, for instance, in networks.
common LISP Abbreviation of common list processor. A
standardized version of the LISP programming language. It
is frequently used in academic and research settings, and for
artificial intelligence applications.
common logarithm A logarithm whose base is 10. Also
called Briggs logarithm.
Common Management Information Protocol A protocol
used with Common Management Information Services.
Its acronym is CMIP.
Common Management Information Services A standard
used in network management. It defines functions and mes-
communication receiver
sages used to monitor and control a network. Its acronym is
CMIS.
common mode Pertaining to signals which are identical in
phase and in amplitude to both inputs of a differential de-
vice, such as a differential amplifier.
common-mode error A difference in voltage at the output
terminals of an operational amplifier, caused by a common-
mode voltage at the input.
common-mode rejection The ability of a differential ampli-
fier to reject common-mode signals, while responding to
signals which are not in phase. Its abbreviation is CMR.
Also called in-phase rejection.
common-mode rejection ratio For a differential amplifier,
the ratio of the differential mode gain, to the common mode
gain. This is the extent to which the amplifier rejects com-
mon-mode signals. Its abbreviation is CMRR.
common-mode signal 1. For a differential device, such as a
differential amplifier, a signal applied equally to both inputs.
Also called in-phase signal (1). 2. The algebraic average of
two signals applied to both ends of a balanced circuit, such
as that of a differential amplifier. Also called in-phase sig-
nal (2).
common-mode voltage For a differential device, such as a
differential amplifier, a voltage that appears equally at both
inputs. Its abbreviation is CMV.
Common Object Request Broker Architecture Same as
CORDA.
common return A return conductor that is common to two or
more circuits.
common-source amplifier A field-effect transistor amplifier
in which the source electrode, which is usually grounded, is
common to both the input and output circuits. Also called
grounded-source amplifier.
common-source circuit Same as common-source connec-
tion.
common-source connection For a field-effect transistor, a
mode of operation in which the source electrode, which is
usually grounded, is common to both the input and output
circuits. Also called common-source circuit, or grounded-
source circuit.
communication Also called communications (2), or tele-
communication. 1. The transmission of information be-
tween two or more points or entities. This includes the
equipment, modes, mechanisms, and media used for this
purpose. 2. The information conveyed via communication
(1). 3. The use of electrical, electronic, electromagnetic, op-
tical, or acoustic means to transmit information between two
or more points. Also, the conveyed information.
communication channel Same as communications channel.
communication circuit Same as communications circuit.
communication common carrier Same as communications
common carrier.
communication controller Same as communications con-
troller.
communication equipment Same as communications
equipment.
communication line Same as communications line.
communication link Same as communications link.
communication network Same as communications net-
work.
communication port Same as communications port.
communication program Same as communications pro-
gram.
communication protocol Same as communications proto-
col.
communication receiver Same as communications receiver.
communication satellite
communication satellite Same as communications satellite.
communication security Same as communications security.
communication server Same as communications server.
communication software Same as communications soft-
ware.
communication speed Same as communications speed.
communication system Same as communications system.
communications 1. The science dealing with the transmission
of information between two or more points or entities. This
includes the modes, mechanisms, and media used for this
purpose, and all efforts to advance this field. 2. Same as
communication.
communications channel Same as circuit (3).
communications circuit Same as circuit (3).
communications common carrier Same as common carrier.
communications company A company or other entity which
offers communication (1) services. Also called telecom-
munication company.
communications controller A peripheral which serves to
control one or more communications lines linked to a com-
puter. Communications controllers handle tasks such as
sending, receiving, coding, decoding, and error-checking,
thus freeing resources of the computer it is connected to.
Such devices are generally nonprogrammable, but those that
can be programmed are called front-end processors.
communications equipment The equipment necessary to
transmit information between two or more points or entities.
Such equipment may consist of a single a radio transmitter,
it could be a few telephones, or can be the hardware, usually
along with any necessary software, of a LAN or a WAN.
communications line Same as circuit (3).
communications link Also called information link, or data
link. 1. A connection which enables the transmission of in-
formation between two points or entities. 2. The resources
which facilitate a communications link (1).
communications network A system of computers, transmis-
sion channels, and related resources which are intercon-
nected to exchange information. A communications net-
work may be comparatively small, in which case it can be a
LAN, or relatively large, in which case it could be a WAN.
A LAN may be confined, for instance to a single building,
while a WAN may cover an entire country. The communi-
cations channels in a network may be temporary or perma-
nent. Also called computer network (1), network (1), or
telecommunications network.
communications port An interface which serves to connect a
peripheral device to a computer. Such a device may be a
modem, a mouse, a monitor, another computer, and so on.
lts abbreviation is COM, com port, or eomm port.
communications program A program that manages the
transmission of data between computers. Such programs
usually work with a modem, and include file transfer proto-
cols and terminal emulation. Its abbreviation is com pro-
gram. Also called communications software.
communications protocol A standard, or a set of rules, which
must be agreed upon in order for two or more devices, such
as modems, to exchange information effectively. Such con-
ventions must include considerations such as how to initiate
and terminate a transmission, the transmission speed, and
whether the transmission will be synchronous or asynchro-
nous. In addition, these may include error-detection tech-
niques, encryption, and so on. Examples of communications
protocols include Point-to-Point Protocol, and Zmodem.
Also called protocol.
communications receiver A device intended to receive radio-
frequency communications, such as weather transmissions.
128 compact disc-erasable
communications satellite An artificial satellite which relays,
and usually amplifies, radio-wave signals between terrestrial
communications stations, terrestrial communications sta-
tions and other communications satellites, or between other
communications satellites. Such satellites provide high-
capacity communications links, offer a very wide coverage
area, and may transmit TV, telephone, and data signals,
among many others. Its abbreviation is comsat. Also called
radio relay satellite, relay satellite, or repeater satellite.
communications security The measures taken to help prevent
unauthorized access, interception, or alteration of communi-
cated information, such as that in data transmissions. Pass-
words and encryption are two common precautions. Its ab-
breviation is COMSEC. Also called telecommunications
security.
communications server A computer that utilizes network-
emulation software to connect asynchronous devices to a
LAN or WAN. It manages communications, and takes care
of protocol conversions. Also called network-access
server, remote-access server, or access server.
communications software Same as communications pro-
gram.
communications speed The rate at which data, or any form of
information, is transmitted over a communications line.
Such a speed may be expressed, for example, in some multi-
ple of bits per second. Also called transmission speed.
communications system The equipment, modes, mecha-
nisms, and media used to transmit data, voice, video, or
other forms of information from one point to another. Also
called telecommunications system.
Communicator A popular Web browser.
community-antenna television Same as cable TV.
community-antenna TV Same as cable TV.
commutating capacitor A capacitor which reverses the cur-
rent in a silicon-controlled rectifier, so that it goes into cut-
off condition.
commutation 1. The transfer of current from one path of a
circuit to another path within the same circuit. Also, such a
transfer between elements of the same circuit. 2. The rever-
sals of current through the windings of an armature, to pro-
vide DC at the brushes. 3. In communications, the repeated,
usually cyclical, sampling of multiple quantities, for multi-
plexing over a single channel.
commutator 1. A device, such as a switch, used to reverse
current. 2. In a DC motor or generator, the section that
causes the direction of the electric current to be reversed in
the armature windings. 3. In a DC motor or generator, the
section which maintains electrical continuity between the
rotor and the stator. 4. In communications, a circuit or de-
vice used for commutation (3).
commutator switch A device used to execute repetitive series
of switching operations. Such a switch is usually rotary, and
may be electrical or mechanical. Used, for instance, for
commutation (3). Also called sampling switch, or scan-
ning switch.
compact disc Same as CD (1). Also spelled compact disk.
compact disc audio Same as CD audio.
compact disc burner Same as CD burner.
compact disc caddy Same as CD caddy.
compact disc carousel player Same as CD carousel player.
compact disc changer Same as CD changer.
compact disc-DA Same as CD-DA.
compact disc digital audio Same as CD audio.
compact disc drive Same as CD drive.
compact dlse-E Same as CD-E.
compact disc-erasable Same as CD-erasable.
compact disc-extra 129
compact disc-extra Same as CD-extra.
compact dlse-G Same as CD-G.
compact disc-I Same as CD-I.
compact disc-interactive Same as CD-interactive.
compact disc interactive system Same as CD-interactive
system.
compact disc Jukebox Same as CD Jukebox.
compact disc player Same as CD player.
compact disc-plus Same as CD-plus.
compact dlsc-R Same as CD-R.
compact disc read-only memory Same as CD-ROM.
compact disc read-only memory burner Same as CD-ROM
burner.
compact disc read-only memory changer Same as CD-
ROM changer.
compact disc read-only memory drive Same as CD-ROM
drive.
compact disc read-only memory extended architecture
Same as CD-ROM extended architecture.
compact disc read-only memory jukebox Same as CD-
ROM jukebox.
compact disc read-only memory player Same as CD-ROM
player.
compact disc read-only memory reader Same as CD-ROM
reader.
compact disc read-only memory recorder Same as CD-
ROM recorder.
compact disc read-only memory server Same as CD-ROM
server.
compact disc read-only memory tower Same as CD-ROM
tower.
compact disc read-only memory' writer Same as CD-ROM
writer.
compact disc read-only memory XA Same as CD-ROM
XA.
compact disc-recordable Same as CD-recordable.
compact disc recorder Same as CD recorder.
compact disc-rewritable Same as CD-rewritable.
compact disc-ROM Same as CD-ROM.
compact disc-ROM drive Same as CD-ROM drive.
compact disc-RW Same as CD-RW.
compact disc system Same as CD system.
compact disc-text Same as CD-text.
compact disc tower Same as CD tower.
compact disc-universal data format Same as CD-UDF.
compact disc video Same as CDV.
compact disc-WO Same as CD-WOo
compact disc write once Same as CD write once.
compact disk Same as compact disc.
Compact Flash Abbreviation of CompactFlash card.
Compact Flash card Same as CompactFlash card.
compact Peripheral Component Interconnect Same as
compactPCI.
CompactFlash Abbreviation of CompactFlash card.
CompactFlash card A flash card which is approximately 43
x 36 mm, has a 50-pin interface, and provides capacities
which can exceed lOB. Its abbreviation is CompactFlash,
or CF card.
compaction Same as compression (2).
compactPCI Abbreviation of compact Peripheral Compo-
nent Interconnect. A pel bus specification intended to bet-
ter address uses within industrial environments. Its features
compatible mode
include a more rugged package, high reliability, modularity,
and the ability to perform hot swaps.
compander Acronym for compressor-expander.
companding A process in which a compressor limits the
output signal when recording or transmitting, and an ex-
pander increases the input signal when reproducing or re-
ceiving. Used, for example, to improve the signal-to-noise
ratio.
compandor Same as compander.
comparator 1. A circuit, device, or instrument which com-
pares quantities. Used, for example, to compare a variable
with a standard measure or a desired value, or for comparing
two quantities with each other. 2. A circuit or device, such
as a differential amplifier, whose output depends on the
comparison of its inputs.
compare The examining of two or more items or quantities,
so as to ascertain if they are equivalent or not. If they are
not, a determination can be made, for instance, as to their
relative magnitude. In computers, compare operations are
used, for instance, when analyzing, sorting, or deciding
which action to take after a given operation. Also called
compare operation.
compare operation Same as compare.
comparison An operation in which two or more items or
quantities are compared.
comparison bridge A bridge circuit which generates an error
signal when the output voltage deviates from a reference
voltage. It is similar to a four-arm bridge.
compass 1. An instrument which indicates a horizontal refer-
ence direction. Such an instrument usually consists of one
or more magnetic needles which freely tum on a pivot, and
which point to magnetic north. 2. Any instrument which in-
dicates direction. Such a device need not be magnetic.
compatibility 1. The ability of two or more computer systems
or components to work together seamlessly, without modifi-
cation. This also extends to programs and shared files. For
instance, a printer that works essentially flawlessly with a
given computer, or a program that works equally well across
multiple platforms. 2. The extent to which compatibility
(1) is achieved. 3. The ability of two or more components,
devices, pieces of equipment, or systems to work properly
together, without modification. 4. The extent to which
compatibility (3) is achieved.
compatibility mode A mode of operation which makes hard-
ware or software compatible with other hardware or soft-
ware that would otherwise be incompatible. For instance, a
program which is optimized to run within one operating sys-
tem, but is able to be used in compatibility mode with an-
other.
compatible Characterized by compatibility (1), or compati-
bility (3).
compatible color television Same as compatible color TV
system.
compatible color television system Same as compatible
color TV system.
compatible color TV Same as compatible color TV system.
compatible color TV system Abbreviation of compatible
color television system. A color TV system whose trans-
mitted color images can be received and viewed by mono-
chrome TV receivers which have not been modified. Also
called compatible color TV.
compatible components Two or more components which
work properly together without modification.
compatible devices Two or more devices which work prop-
erly together without modification.
compatible mode A mode in which hardware or software can
be used so that it works properly with otherwise incompati-
ble hardware or software.
compatible systems
compatible systems Two or more systems which work prop-
erly together without modification.
compensated amplifier A wideband amplifier whose fre-
quency range is increased through the proper selection of
circuit components and characteristics.
compensated semiconductor A semiconductor with two
types of impurities or imperfections, in which the electrical
effects of one type of impurity or imperfection partially can-
cels the other. For instance, a donor impurity partly annul-
ling the electrical effects of an acceptor impurity.
compensated volume control In an audio system, a volume
control which incorporates a circuit that boosts low frequen-
cies when listening at low-volume settings. This compen-
sates for the lower auditory response humans have under
these circumstances, thus making the sound more natural.
Such a control may also boost high frequencies. Also called
loudness control (1).
compensating capacitor Also called compensation capaci-
tor. 1. In a radio direction finder, a variable capacitor used
to improve the accuracy of direction indication. Also called
balancing capacitor. 2. A capacitor which is utilized to
compensate for other components in a circuit. For instance,
a temperature-compensating capacitor.
compensating filter A selective filter which is utilized to
compensate for a deficiency, irregularity, or otherwise unde-
sirable quantity. Also called compensation filter.
compensating leads An additional pair of leads, which are
used alongside the working leads of an instrument, to com-
pensate for environmental effects such as changes in tem-
perature. Used, for instance, in a resistance thermometer.
Also called compensation leads.
compensation The offsetting, counterbalancing, neutraliaing,
or stabilizing of a component, circuit, device, piece of
equipment, or system. Compensation may be used, for in-
stance, to make up for system deficiencies, environmental
complications, or for adjusting equipment to meet specific
needs.
compensation capacitor Same as compensating capacitor.
compensation filter Same as compensating filter.
compensation leads Same as compensating leads.
compensation signal A signal recorded on a magnetic tape
track, which enables electrically correcting errors in tape
speed during playback. . substrate.
compensator A component, circuit, device, or piece of
equipment which serves to offset, counterbalance, neutral-
ize, or stabilize. Used, for instance, to make up for system
deficiencies, environmental complications, or for adjust-
ments made to meet specific needs.
competitive local exchange carrier A communications entity
which offers local telephone service. Such an entity may of-
fer other services, such as long-distance calling, Internet ac-
cess, and so on. Its abbreviation is CLEC.
compilation Also called compiling. 1. The process of taking
the source code of a program written in a high-level lan-
guage and translating it into machine language. 2. The
process of taking a set of high-level language statements and
translating them into a lower-level representation.
compilation error 1. An error occurring during compilation.
2. An error detected during compilation.
compilation time Same as compile time.
compile 1. To take the source code of a program written in a
high-level language, and translate it into machine language
using a compiler (1). 2. To take a set of high-level language
statements, and translate them into a lower-level representa-
tion using a compiler (2).
compile time The time it takes to compile. Also called com-
pilation time.
130 complementary metal-oxide semiconductor technology
compile-time error An error that occurs while a program is
being compiled, as opposed to a runtime error, which oc-
curs while a program is being executed.
compiled language A computer programming language in
which all the code is translated into machine language be-
fore being executed. This contrasts with an interpreted
language, in which each statement is translated then exe-
cuted, followed by the next statement, and so on. LISP is a
programming language that has both compiler and inter-
preter versions.
compiler Also called compiler program, or compiling pro-
gram. 1. A computer program which takes the source code
of a program written in a high-level language and translates
it into machine language. When using a compiler, all the
code is translated before any program instructions are exe-
cuted, while an interpreter translates and executes each
statement or instruction before moving on to the next. 2. A
computer program which takes a set of high-level language
statements and translates them into a lower-level representa-
tion.
compiler program Same as compiler.
compiling Same as compilation.
compiling error 1. An error occurring during compilation.
2. An error detected during compilation.
compiling program Same as compiler.
complement The numerical result obtained when a number is
subtracted from the radix, which is the number of digits used
in a numbering system. For instance, the complement of 6
in the decimal number system is 4: (10 - 6) = 4. The com-
plement of a number in the binary number system is the
other: 1 is the complement of 0, and 0 is the complement of
I. Used in computers, for instance, to represent negative
numbers. Also called true complement, or radix comple-
ment.
complement number system A system of handling numbers
in which arithmetic operations are performed on the com-
plements of numbers. Used, for instance, to handle negative
numbers in a simpler manner.
complementary 1. Mutually completing. 2. Compensating
for mutual deficiencies. 3. In semiconductors, having com-
ponents of opposite polarities working together. For in-
stance, incorporating pnp and npn transistors on the same
complementary colors Two colors, which when combined in
the appropriate proportions, yield an achromatic color. For
instance, red and green.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor Same as
CMOS.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor-based Same as
CMOS-based.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor battery Same
as CMOS battery.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor chip Same as
CMOS chip.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor device Same as
CMOS device.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor memory Same
as CMOS memory.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor RAM Same as
CMOS RAM.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor random-access
memory Same as CMOS RAM.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor setup Same as
CMOS setup.
complementary metal-oxide semiconductor technology
Same as CMOS technology.
complementary network services
complementary network services Additional services of-
fered to clients of telephone companies, such as call waiting,
call forwarding, or voice mail. Its abbreviation is CNS.
complementary operation In Boolean algebra, an operation
which negates another given operation. For example, a
NOR operation negates an OR operation. Thus, NOR and
OR are said to be complementary.
complementary operator In Boolean algebra, the operator
which identifies an operation which negates another.
complementary symmetry Same as complementary-
symmetry circuit.
complementary-symmetry circuit A circuit which incorpo-
rates transistors of opposite polarities, such as npn and pnp,
in an arrangement that achieves push-pull operation. Also
called complementary symmetry.
complementary transistors Transistors of opposite polarities,
such as npn and pnp, used in the same circuit or device.
Used, for instance, to achieve push-pull operation.
complementary wave In a transmission line, such as a coax-
ial cable, an electromagnetic wave that arises as a result of
reflection. This may occur, for instance, at each end of the
line.
complete carry In computers, a carry technique in which the
carries that result from an operation are propagated to other
digit positions. This contrasts with a partial carry, where
carries are temporarily stored.
complete circuit Same as closed circuit (1).
complete failure A failure which causes the immediate and
entire loss of the proper function of the affected component,
circuit, device, piece of equipment, or system.
completed call A telephone call that is connected to its desti-
nation. A completed call is registered as soon as the connec-
tion is made, not when the connection is terminated. Also
called completed call attempt, or effective call.
completed call attempt Same as completed call.
complex impedance The expressing of an electrical imped-
ance incorporating both its real number and imaginary num-
ber components. Its formula is: Z = R + jX, in which Z is
the impedance, R is the resistance, X is the reactance, and j
is the square root of -I. That is, j2 = -I. Z is expressed in
ohms.
complex instruction set computer A computer whose CPU
supports instructions of various types and sizes, including
numerous address modes. The execution of each instruction
generally requires multiple clock cycles. This contrasts. ~ith
a reduced-instruction set computer whose CPU utilizes
fewer and simpler instructions. Its acronym is CISC.
complex instruction set computing Computing utilizing a
complex instruction set computer. Its acronym is CISC.
complex notation The expressing of a quantity incorporating
both its real number and imaginary number components.
For instance, acoustic impedance is comprised of acoustic
resistance, the real number component, and acoustic reac-
tance, the imaginary number component.
complex number A number in the form of a + bi, in which a
and b are real numbers, and i is the square root of -I. That
is, ;2 = -I. ln electronics, the symbol utilized to express the
square root of -I is usually j. When a = 0, the resulting ex-
pression is an imaginary number.
complex plane A plane with two perpendicular axes upon
which complex numbers are represented. The horizontal
axis represents the real number component, while the verti-
cal axis represents the imaginary number component.
complex quantity A quantity that has both real number and
imaginary number components. Complex quantities are ex-
pressed using complex notation.
complex signal A signal with multiple components.
131 component video
complex tone A tone consisting of two or more pure sinusoi-
dal frequencies.
complex variable A variable that has both real number and
imaginary number components.
complex wave A wave which multiple sine-wave compo-
nents, each of a different frequency.
complex waveform The shape of a complex wave.
compliance The displacement of a mechanical system, such
as the cone suspension of a speaker, when a force is applied.
It is the mechanical and acoustical equivalent of capaci-
tance.
compliance voltage The output voltage of a constant-current
source.
component 1. A constituent part, especially of an organized
whole or system. 2. Same as circuit component. 3. One of
the parts which constitute a magnitude. For example, the
real or imaginary number components of impedance.
component density 1. The number of components per unit
area. 2. The number of components per unit volume.
component digital Same as component digital video.
component digital video A digital signal in which the video
information is carried by separate signals, as in the lumi-
nance and chrominance signals being separate components.
Examples include ROB and YCbCr. Its abbreviation is
component digital. Also called digital component video.
component engineering The application of engineering prin-
ciples to the fabrication, analysis, uses, testing, compatibil-
ity, improvement, and the like, of circuit components.
component failure A failure of a component within a system.
May be due to any of various factors, including misuse,
wearing-out, or as a consequence of the failure of another
system component.
component failure analysis 1. The study of the causes that
lead to component failures. 2. The calculation of a com-
ponent failure rate (2).
component failure rate 1. The number of component failures
per unit measure, such as time or cycles. 2. The number of
expected component failures per unit measure, such as time
or cycles.
component layout The physical arrangement of the compo-
nents of a system, such as those of a circuit.
component lead A conductor, usually a wire, by which circuit
components are connected to other components, devices,
equipment, systems, points, or materials.
Component Object Model In computers, a binary standard
which enables objects to interact with other objects, whether
they are written in the same programming language or an-
other. Its acronym is COM.
component response 1. A change in the behavior, operation,
or function of a component as a consequence of a change in
its external or internal environment. For example, a change
in its output resulting from a change in its input. 2. A quan-
tified component response (1), such as a frequency re-
sponse.
component signal Same as component video.
component software Software components, such as program
routines, which are designed to be combined with other such
components to form larger programs. This allows, for ex-
ample, for applications to be quickly customized by using
available constituents whose function is known. Also called
componentware.
component video In TV transmission and reception, the car-
rying of video information in separate signals, which are
then combined before viewing. For instance, sending the
red, green, blue, blanking, and synchronizing signals sepa-
rately. Also caJled component video signal, or component
signal.
component video signal
component video signal Same as component video.
componentware Same as component software.
Composer A popular Web authoring tool.
composite cable A cable which combines conductors of dif-
ferent types and/or gauges. For example, one incorporating
both opticaland metallic signal-carryingcomponents.
composite circuit Same as composited circuit.
composite color signal Same as composite video signal.
composite color sync A TV signal which includes all the
synchronizing signals, such as the color burst, necessary for
the proper function of a color TV receiver.
composite conductor An electrical conductor composed of
two or more strands of different materials. For instance, a
conductorwith strands of copper and strands of aluminum.
composite digital Same as composite digital video.
composite digital video A digital video signal combining the
color picture signal, plus all blanking and synchronizing
signals. Examples include digitally encoded PAL and
NTSC. Its abbreviation is composite digital. Also called
digital composite video.
composite filter A fiIter which incorporates two or more
types of filters connected in cascade.
composite pictu re signal Same as composite video signal.
composite plate The electrodepositionof two or more metals,
in successivelayers.
composite signal Same as composite video signal.
composite video Same as composite video signal.
composite video signal A TV signal combining the color
picture signal, plus all blanking and synchronizing signals.
For example, an NTSC video signal, or an PAL video sig-
nal. Also called composite color signal, composite picture
signal, composite signal, or composite video.
composite wave filter Two or more wave filters connected in
cascade.
composited circuit Also called composite circuit. 1. A
communications circuit which is used simultaneously for te-
lephony and signaling. 2. A communications circuit which
is used simultaneously for telephony and DC telegraphy.
composition resistor A resistor composed of finely-divided
particles, usually carbon, which are mixed with a ceramic
binder, formed into a desired shape, then has leads attached
to each end. An example is a carbon resistor.
compound t. Consisting of two or more components.
2. Same as chemical compound.
compound generator A DC generator having both series and
shunt windings.
compound modulation A series of modulation processes in
which the modulated wave from one stage becomes the
modulating wave for the next. Also called multiple modu-
lation.
compound motor A DC motor having both series and shunt
windings.
compound semiconductor A semiconductor material consist-
ing of two or more elements. For instance, gallium and ar-
senic, or boron and phosphorus. Such semiconductors, for
instance, may emit radiation in the visible range, and can be
used for semiconductor lasers.
compound winding A winding which has both series and
shunt windings.
compress To reduce data or information in size or volume.
For instance, to compress a video signal or a message sent
through a network, or to compact a file. This helps maxi-
mize the use of storage space, facilitates faster transfer, and
also reduces transmission bandwidth.
compressed-air loudspeaker Same as compressed-air
speaker.
132 compressor driver
compressed-air speaker A speaker which uses a stream of
compressed air to enhance its reproduction of sound. Also
called compressed-air loudspeaker.
compressed audio Audio data which is encoded so that it
occupies less room. This helps maximize the use of storage
space, facilitates faster transfer, and also reduces transmis-
sion bandwidth.
compressed data Data which is encoded so that it occupies
less room. This helps maximize the use of storage space,
facilitates faster transfer, and also reduces transmission
bandwidth.
compressed digital video Digital video which is compressed
to facilitate faster transfer, while also occupying less re-
sources of the communications channel. Its abbreviation is
CDV.
compressed file A file whose contents are encoded so as to
occupy less room. This helps maximize the use of storage
space, facilitates faster transfer, and also reduces transmis-
sion bandwidth.
Compressed Serial Line Internet Protocol Same as Com-
pressed SLIP.
Compressed SLIP Abbreviation of Compressed Serial Line
Internet Protocol. A version of SLIP which compressescer-
tain information to reduce overhead, thus making it faster
than SLIP. Its acronym is CSLIP.
compressed video Video data which is encoded so that it
occupies less room. This helps maximize the use of storage
space, facilitates faster transfer, and also reduces transmis-
sion bandwidth.
compression 1. A reduction in size or volume. 2. The encod-
ing of data or information so that it occupies less space
and/or bandwidth. There are many algorithms used for
compression, and depending on the information being en-
coded, space savings can range from under 10% to over
99%. Compression can also be achieved by increasing
packing density. Also called compaction, data compres-
sion, or information compression. 3. The variation in the
gain of a signal, so that the lower magnitude levels have a
higher effective gain than the higher magnitude levels. This
results in a more balanced output, where lower-level signals
have a better signal-to-noiseratio, while higher levels signal
do not overload.
compression program Same as compression utility.
compression ratio 1. A ratio which describes the proportion
of space saved after data compression. For example, a re-
duction of 50% in the occupied space may be expressed a
2:I compression ratio. 2. The ratio of the gain of a device at
a reference signal level, to the gain at a given higher signal
level. Usually expressed in decibels. 3. The ratio of the
gain of a device at a given lower signal level, to the gain at a
given higher signal level. Usually expressed in decibels.
compression utility A utility, such as WinZip or PKZIP,
utilized to compress files. Also called compression pro-
gram.
compression wave A wave which is propagated by means of
the compression of a fluid. For instance, sound waves
propagatingthrough air. Also called compressional wave.
compressional wave Same as compression wave.
compressor I. A circuit or device which reduces the range of
its input signal magnitudes. 2. A program or routine which
compressesdata.
compressor-decompressor Hardware and/or software which
compresses and decompresses information such as audio or
video signals. Its acronym is codec.
compressor driver A hom speaker in whichthe energy radi-
ated from its diaphragm is channeled through a small open-
ing, providing higher-pressure sound waves, which then in-
compressor-expander 133
teract with the lower-pressure area of the horn before being
radiated out the mouth of the hom.
compressor-expander Its acronym is compander. 1. A
device incorporating a compressor and an expander. 2. A
system in which a compressor limits the output signal when
recording or transmitting, and an expander increases the in-
put signal when reproducing or receiving. Used, for exam-
ple, to improve the signal-to-noise ratio.
Compton-Debye effect Same as Compton effect.
Compton effect An increase in the wavelengths of X-rays and
gamma rays when they have been scattered by electrons pre-
sent in matter. After a collision, the scattered radiation has
decreased in energy, while the electron has increased in en-
ergy. Also called Compton scattering, Compton process,
or Compton-Debye effect.
Compton electron An electron whose energy has increased,
as a result of the Compton effect. Also called Compton
recoil electron.
Compton process Same as Compton effect.
Compton recoil electron Same as Compton electron.
Compton scattering Same as Compton effect.
Compton shift The increase in the wavelengths of X-rays and
gamma rays as a result of the Compton effect.
COMPUSEC Acronym for computer security.
computation t. The use of a computer. 2. The action, or
manner, of computing. 3. A computed amount.
computation-bound Same as CPU-bound.
compute 1. To perform a calculation. 2. To use a computer.
compute-bound Same as CPU-bound.
computed axial tomography Same as computed tomogra-
phy. Its acronym is CAT.
computed axial tomography scan Same as computed tomo-
graphy. Its abbreviation is CAT scan.
computed axial tomography scanner A device which takes a
computed tomography. Its abbreviation is CAT scanner.
computed radiography Radiography performed with the
assistance of a computer. An example is computed tomo-
graphy.
computed tomography A medical diagnostic technique in
which a series of X-rays are taken at different angles around
a specific part of a body. A computer combines the images
of the multiple scans, and produces cross-sectional or three-
dimensional pictures of internal organs. It is relatively safe,
painless, quick, and very sensitive. Its abbreviation is CT.
There are several variations, including PET and SPECT.
Also called by several other names, including computed ax-
ial tomography scan, computed tomography scan, com-
puter-aided tomography, computerized axial tomogra-
phy, and CAT scan.
computed tomography scan Same as computed tomogra-
phy. Its abbreviation is CT scan.
computed tomography scanner Same as CT scanner.
computer A device which accepts an input, processes this
information, then presents an output. A computer is com-
posed of hardware and software. The hardware includes all
the physical equipment, such as keyboard, mouse, monitor,
memory, storage mediums, cables, and the key computing
component, which is the CPU. The software, in the form of
programs, tells the hardware how to process information.
Programs include operating systems, network software, and
applications such as word processors. Most computers are
digital, although there are other types, such as analog and
hybrid. A computer may be contained on a single chip.
Also called computing machine.
computer-aided design The use of computer hardware and
software to design models and products. High-resolution
monitors are combined with powerful CPUs and sophisti-
computer-aided software engineering technology
cated software, to enable the design of anything from ICs to
airplanes. Such systems allow users to view and manipulate
objects in two or three dimensions, using outlines or solid
shapes, while keeping track of and updating any changes
which affect other components of the object, among many
other available functions. Its acronym is CAD.
computer-aided design and drafting Similar to computer-
aided design, but with additional features for drafting, such
as dimensioning. Its acronym is CADD.
computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing Its
acronym is CAD/CAM. The utilization of computers and
specialized machines to design and manufacture a given
product. The CAD portion is used for designing, and its
output is the set of instructions that tell the CAM part what
to do in order to provide the desired result.
computer-aided diagnosis The use of computers to assist in
the diagnosis of medical conditions. Such assistance may
include correlating symptoms and test results with possible
causes, or scanning X-rays and identifying suspicious areas.
Its acronym is CAD. Also called computer-assisted diag-
nosis.
computer-aided dispatch system A dispatch system, such as
that used by emergency services, which utilizes fixed and
mobile computers to make better use of the available per-
sonnel and vehicle resources. Its acronym is CADS.
computer-aided education Same as computer-aided in-
struction. Its abbreviation is CAE.
computer-aided engineering The use of computers to ana-
lyze engineering designs. It may be used, for instance, for
electromagnetic, structural, or circuit analysis. Its abbrevia-
tion is CAE.
computer-aided graphics Same as computer graphics (1).
computer-aided instruction The incorporation of computers
into educational processes. Such learning may take place at
an educational institution, a library, a workplace, or the
home. Computer resources may help instructors at any edu-
cational level to better convey information, and allows stu-
dents to proceed at a learning rate they are comfortable with.
These methods usually make extensive use of graphics, and
often allow one-click access to the Internet for yet more in-
formation. Its abbreviation is CAl. Also called computer-
aided education, computer-aided learning, computer-
aided teaching, computer-assisted instruction, computer-
assisted learning, or computer-assisted teaching.
computer-aided learning Its abbreviation is CAL. Same as
computer-aided instruction.
computer-aided manufacturing The utilization of computers
to automate manufacturing systems. Used, for instance, to
control an assembly line in which each station is occupied
by industrial robots. Its acronym is CAM. Also called
computer-assisted manufacturing.
computer-aided prototyping The use of computers to help
prepare prototypes of products. A computer may be used,
for instance, to scan a three-dimensional drawing, process
this information, and then send the control signals which
form the prototype. An example of computer-aided proto-
typing is to provide an efficient means of determining and
evaluating production requirements before entering the
manufacturing phase of a product.
computer-aided prototyping system A system utilized for
computer-aided prototyping.
computer-aided software engineering The use of computers
to assist in the automation of all phases of software design,
development, documentation, and maintenance. Its acronym
is CASE. Also called computer-aided systems engineer-
ing, computer-assisted software engineering, or com-
puter-assisted systems engineering.
computer-aided software engineering technology A soft-
ware technology which enables computer-aided software
engineering. Its abbreviation is CASE technology.
computer-aided software engineering tools
computer-aided software engineering tools The resources
available to software engineers utilizing computer-aided
software engineering technology. Such tools include
automatic coding and intelligent agents. Its abbreviation is
CASE tools.
computer-aided systems engineering Same as computer-
aided software engineering. Its acronym is CASE.
computer-aided teaching Same as computer-aided instruc-
tion. Its acronym is CAT.
computer-aided testing Same as computer-assisted testing.
Its acronym is CAT.
computer-aided tomography Same as computed tomogra-
phy. Its acronym is CAT.
computer-aided training Same as computer-assisted train-
ing. Its acronym is CAT.
computer-aided translation The use of computers to assist in
the translation of one or more natural languages into another
or others, and vice versa. Such programs may incorporate
features such as pop-up glossaries for specific areas of ex-
pertise, the automatic matching of text already translated,
and so on. Also called computer-assisted translation. Its
acronym is CAT.
computer animation The use of computers to create and/or
modify animated graphics.
computer architecture The design of a computer and its
components. This includes for which purposes it can be
used, along with its memory and processing requirements
and capabilities. This in tum affects variables such as what
software may be used with it, and which peripherals are
compatible. Also called architecture (2), or computer sys-
tem architecture.
computer-assisted design Same as computer-aided design.
Its acronym is CAD.
computer-assisted diagnosis Same as computer-aided di-
agnosis. Its acronym is CAD.
computer-assisted education Same as computer-aided
instruction. Its acronym is CAE.
computer-assisted instruction Same as computer-aided
instruction. Its acronym is CAl.
computer-assisted learning Same as computer-aided in-
struction. Its acronym is CAL.
computer-assisted manufacturing Same as computer-aided
manufacturing. Its acronym is CAM.
computer-assisted retrieval The use of computers to assist in
the location and/or retrieval of materials stored on diverse
media, such as paper, microfilm, and the such. The com-
puter maintains a listing or index, from which the desired
materials are selected. Its acronym is CAR.
computer-assisted software engineering Same as com-
puter-aided software engineering. Its acronym is CASE.
computer-assisted systems engineering Same as computer-
aided software engineering. Its acronym is CASE.
computer-assisted teaching Same as computer-assisted
instruction. Its acronym is CAT.
computer-assisted testing The use of computers for perform-
ing tests. May be used, for instance, to evaluate a solid
model prepared by a CAD program. Its acronym is CAT.
Also called computer-aided testing.
computer-assisted tomography Same as computed tomo-
graphy. Its acronym is CAT.
computer-assisted training The use of computers for training
and education. Such learning may take place at a work-
place, a library, an educational institution, or the home.
These methods usually make extensive use of graphics, and
may cover practically any educational or occupational disci-
pline. Its acronym is CAT. Also called computer-aided
training, or computer-based training.
134 computer conferencing
computer-assisted translation Same as computer-aided
translation. Its acronym is CAT.
computer-automated software engineering Same as com-
puter-aided software engineering. Its acronym is CASE.
computer-automated systems engineering Same as com-
puter-aided software engineering. Its acronym is CASE.
Computer Automated Virtual Environment Same as Com-
puter Automatic Virtual Environment. Its acronym is
CAVE.
Computer Automatic Virtual Environment A virtual reality
system where real-time images are projected on four or
more surfaces, at least three of which must be walls. The
use of special glasses gives everything surrounding the user
a three-dimensional feel. These glasses also serve to track
the path of the user's vision, so that the virtual environment
can be changed appropriately. Its acronym is CAVE. Also
called Computer Automated Virtual Environment.
computer axial tomography Same as computed tomogra-
phy. Its acronym is CAT.
computer-based education Same as computer-based in-
struction. Its abbreviation is CDE.
computer-based instruction The use of computers as the
basis for lessons. Such learning may take place at an educa-
tional institution, a library, a workplace, or the home. Com-
puter resources help at any educational level to better con-
vey information, and allows students to proceed at a learning
rate they are comfortable with. These methods usually make
extensive use of graphics, and often allow one-click access
to the Internet for yet more information. Its abbreviation is
CDI. Also called computer-based education, computer-
based teaching, or computer-based learning.
computer-based learning Same as computer-based instruc-
tion. Its abbreviation is CDL.
computer-based reference Reference materials, such as CD-
ROMs, which require a computer to be accessed. Its abbre-
viation is CRR.
computer-based teaching Same as computer-based instruc-
tion. Its abbreviation is CDT.
computer-based training Same as computer-assisted train-
ing. Its abbreviation is CRT.
computer bus A set of conductors which serve as a channel
which provides parallel data transfer from one part of a
computer to another. An example is the local bus, which is
the pathway between the CPU, the memory, and high-speed
peripherals. A bus is subdivided into two parts: the address
bus, which identifies specific locations of stored data, and
the data bus, which transfers the data. The width of the bus
determines the amount of data which can be transferred at a
time. A 256-bit bus, for example, can transfer 256 bits at a
time. The clock speed determines how fast these transfers
take place. Also called bus (1).
computer center A centralized location where computers,
data libraries, and associated equipment are housed. Large
entities may have many mainframes at such a location. May
be used, for instance, for centralized processing. Also called
datacenter, data-processing center.
computer chip A chip, especially the CPU, used in a com-
puter.
computer code 1. Same as code (2). 2. A system of symbols
or values, accompanied by rules used to represent instruc-
tions and information, so as to convert them into a form that
is suitable for computer processing. For instance, machine
code, source code, or ASCII code.
computer conferencing The use of computers and communi-
cations channels to enable two or more people, or groups, to
interact. Such conferencing may involve any combination
of written, verbal, or visual communication. In addition,
other resources may be shared, such as files. Examples in-
computer connector 135 computer language

elude chats and videoconferencing, Also called computer
meeting.
computer connector A device which serves to connect com- computer file A collection of information which is stored as a
puters to peripherals, other computers, systems, or networks.
Examples include DB connectors and BNC connectors.
computer control The use of a computer or microprocessorto
control a component, circuit, device, piece of equipment.
machine, mechanism. or system.
computer-controlled A component, circuit, device, piece of
equipment, machine, mechanism, or system which is con-
trolled by a computer or microprocessor.
computer-controlled device A device which is controlled by
a computer or microprocessor. For instance, a switch.
computer-controlled equipment Equipment which is con- computer graphics Its abbreviation is CG. 1. The use of
trolled by a computer or microprocessor. For example,
laboratory apparatuses.
computer-controlled machine A machine which is con-
trolled by a computer or microprocessor. For instance, an
automated teller machine.
computer-controlled manufacturing Manufacturing which
is controlled by a computer or microprocessor. For instance,
computer control of an assembly line.
computer-controlled process A process which is controlled
by a computer or microprocessor. For instance, the weaving
of optical fibers.
computer-controlled robot A robot which is controlled by a
computer or microprocessor. Almost all robots are com-
puter-controlled. The computer which controls a robot is Computer Graphics Metafile A standard file format for
called controller.
computer-controlled system A system which is controlled by
a computer or microprocessor. For instance, a communica- computer hardware In a computer system, all the physical
tions network.
computer data Information which is represented in a manner
suitable for computer use.
computer display 1. A device utilized to display the images
produced by a computer. For a computer to generate such a
display. it requires a display adapter. Such a display incor-
porates a viewing screen and its housing. Also called moni-
tor (1), display (1), or display monitor. 2. The visual out-
put of a computer display (1).
computer effects The use of computers and computer graph- computer instruction 1. A command or statement in a com-
ics to enhance, modify, add, or remove sights and/or sounds
in movies. TV. and other multimedia presentations. Such
effects are extensively used, and some of the techniques em-
ployed include motion capture and tweening. Also called
computer special effects, or digital effects.
computer emergency response team Its acronym is CERT. computer-integrated manufacturing The use of computers
An organization which studies security threats, such as vi-
ruses and denial-of-service attacks, to the Internet and
WANs. CERT, among other services, offers consultations, computer interface 1. A device which serves to connect a
and publishes security alerts.
computer-enhanced image An image which has been en-
hanced with the help of a computer. For this, an image must
first be digitized, and then it may be modified in many ways,
including adjustment of colors. shades, or scaling. Such
techniques have applications in many fields, including art,
medicine, and meteorology.
computer-enhanced instruction The use of computers to
enhance any education process. The use of computers at
educational institutions and libraries, or at home, can help
instructors at any educational level to better convey infonna-
tion, and allows students to proceed at a learning rate they computer language A defined set of characters, symbols, and
are comfortable with. Also cal1ed computer-enhanced
learning.
computer-enhanced learning Same as computer-enhanced
instruction.
computer environment A specific hardware and software
configuration. Many programs. for instance, will only func-
tion properly in a given computer environment. AIso called
environment (2).
unit. Computer files may be retrieved, modified, stored, de-
leted, or transferred. Each type of file requires the appropri-
ate software for the proper handling of its contents. There
are many file types, ineluding data files, program files, sys-
tem files, and multimedia files. Also called file.
computer game A computer program in which one or more
users interact with the computer and/or other players, for
amusement or competition. Such programs may be of vary-
ing complexity, and some feature faithfully realistic simula-
tions of complicated activities such as aircraft piloting. Also
called game, or video game (1).
computers to store, manipulate and display images, such as
pictures, animation, and video. Computers handle graphics
either as vector graphics or as bitmapped graphics, and these
are used in programs such as those for computer-aided de-
sign, desktop publishing, painting, presentations, or anima-
tion. A graphics monitor is required to display the images,
and almost all computer monitors are of this type. Also
called computer-aided graphics, or graphics (3). 2. Any
visible computer output, except for alphanumeric characters.
Examples, include icons, pictures, drawings, and graphs.
Also called graphics (4).
Computer Graphics Interface A device-independent soft-
ware standard pertaining to the display and printing of com-
puter graphics. Its abbreviation is CGI.
storing and communicating graphical information. Its ab-
breviation is CGM.
objects and equipment, such as the CPU, keyboard, mouse.
monitor, memory, storage mediums, cables, connectors,
cards, and so on. This contrasts with software, which con-
sists of programs which tell the hardware what to do. A
computer system is composed of both hardware and soft-
ware. Also called hardware (1).
computer-input microfilm Microfilm information scanned
and converted into code suitable for computer use. Its ab-
breviation is CIM.
puter program or routine. Also called instruction (1). 2. A
computer instruction in machine code. Such an instruction
can be directly executed by a processor. Also called ma-
chine instruction, or instruction (2). 3. The use of com-
puters in teaching.
in the automation of tasks pertaining to manufacturing. Its
abbreviation is CIM.
computer to peripheral devices or a network. Such inter-
faces include SCSI, RS-232, and network adapters. Also
called interface (2). 2. Any interface used within a com-
puter, such as those between programs, between hardware
and software, between hardware and a user, or between
software and a user. Also called interface (3).
computer keyboard A computer input device which incorpo-
rates alphanumeric keys, function keys, control keys, cursor
keys, and additional keys, such as enter, backspace, and in-
sert. A 10I-key keyboard is commonly used. Also called
keyboard (2).
rules utilized together for communication with a computer,
or between computers. The term also applies to
communications between computers and peripherals, or
between peripherals. There are various examples, including
assembly languages, machine languages, command
languages, and programming languages. Also called
language (1).
computer literacy 136
computer literacy The sufficient understanding of computers
and associated devices, such as printers, to be able to use
them to accomplish certain tasks. For instance, a person
with computer literacy should be able to effectively use cer-
tain applications. It is not necessary for them to command
the most advanced functions.
computer logic Also called logic. 1. The functions performed
by a computer which involve operations such as mathemati-
cal computations and true/false comparisons. Such logic is
usually based on Boolean algebra. 2. The circuits in a com-
puter which enable the performance of logic functions or
operations, such as AND, OR, and NOT. These include
gates and flip-flops. Also, the manner in which these cir-
cuits are arranged. Also called machine logic (2). 3. The
totality of the circuitry contained in a computer. Also called
machine logic (3).
computer-managed instruction The use of computers to
manage or assist with lessons and in the evaluation a
learner's performance. Such learning and assessment may
take place at an educational institution, a library, a work-
place, or the home. Its abbreviation is CMI. Also called
computer-managed learning.
computer-managed learning Its abbreviation is CML. Same
as computer-managed instruction.
computer meeting Same as computer conferencing.
computer memory The locations within a computer that
serve for temporarily holding and accessing data in a ma-
chine-readable format. Memory chips are used for this pur-
pose, and most are allocated for RAM, or main memory.
Memory is usually quantified in multiples of bytes. For ex-
ample, a computer with 1 gigabyte of RAM can hold ap-
proximately I billion bytes, or characters, of information,
and this is the total temporary workspace this computer has
available. Other forms of memory in a computer include
ROM, PROM, and EPROM. Although memory and stor-
age are sometimes used synonymously, storage refers to a
more permanent form of holding and accessing data, using
magnetic or optical media, such as disks and tapes. Also
called memory, or system memory (1).
computer mouse A computer pointing device which when
moved upon a surface also moves the cursor on the display
screen, and which usually has two or more buttons used for
selecting, performing functions, or the like. Some mice also
have a scroll wheel, which further facilitates navigating
through documents, Web pages, and so on. Most mice are
either mechanical or optical, and some are cordless. A com-
puter mouse looks more or less like its rodent counterpart, in
that it has a compact body and a longish tail, while the mov-
ing and clicking of the former is analogous to the scurrying
and nose-twitching of the latter, hence its name. Also called
mouse.
computer music The use of a computer to create, help create,
process, or reproduce music. A Musical Instrument Digital
Interface is used to enable a computer to communicate with
a properly equipped musical instrument or synthesizer.
computer network 1. Same as communications network.
2. A group of computers which exchange information, com-
plete with the necessary links between them.
computer networking The use of a computer network to
exchange information.
computer numerical control A form of automatic control of
tools and machines. For instance, the instructions of a com-
puter program controlling the position, movements, and
speed of a drill in a manufacturing process. Its abbreviation
is CNC. Also called computerized numerical control, or
numerical control.
computer-on-a-chip A complete computer that is contained
on a single chip. Such a chip must have a CPU, memory, a
clock, and input/output circuits. These chips may be used in
computer screen
countless items, including automobiles, toys, appliances,
clocks, and so on. Also called microcontroller, micro-
computer (2), or one-chip computer.
computer operation A specific action carried out by a com-
puter, such as a compare operation.
computer-oriented language A low-level language, such as
an assembly or machine language, which is designed for use
only with a specific computer line. Also called machine-
oriented language.
computer output on microfilm Same as computer output to
microfilm.
Computer Output to Laser Disc The storing of computer
information, such as data, on an optical medium, such as a
CD-ROM. Used, for instance, to archive high volumes of
information. Its abbreviation is COLD.
computer output to microfilm Computer data recorded on
microfilm, or microfilm which records computer data. Its
abbreviation is COM. Also called computer output on
microfilm.
computer performance evaluation The measuring and
evaluating of the performance of computer hardware and
software, to determine the efficiency of an existing system
for its designated uses, or the suitability of a prospective
system. Such an evaluation, for instance, may quantify the
ratio of system availability to unavailability, appropriateness
of the utilized applications, and so on. Its abbreviation is
CPE.
computer platform Same as computing platform.
computer power Same as computing power.
computer program A set of instructions which when trans-
lated and executed cause a computer to perform specific op-
erations. Computer programs are written in programming
languages, which may be classified as high-level or low-
level. High-level languages, such as COBOL, C++, and
Java, require a compiler or interpreter to translate statements
into machine language. Low-level languages, such as an as-
sembly language, are much closer to machine language, but
still require an assembler for conversion into machine lan-
guage. The only language a computer understands is ma-
chine language. Although program and software are used
mostly synonymously, software is a bit more of a general
term, as it is used to differentiate from the physical equip-
ment of a computer, the hardware, from the instructions
which tell a computer what to do, the software. An applica-
tion is both a program and software, but when using the term
software it usually refers to multiple application programs,
or application programs in general, in which case they are
called application software. Also called program (1).
computer programming The creating of computer programs.
The key components in this process include a full under-
standing of which tasks the final program will be meant to
perform, a command of the programming language being
used to write the program, the development of the program
logic to suitably address problems to be solved, and the test-
ing and debugging of the program. Also called program-
ming (2).
computer-readable Information that is in a form that can
serve as computer input. This includes information in bi-
nary form, such as files stored on magnetic disks, and data
obtainable through optical-character recognition. Also
called machine-readable.
computer science The study of the theoretical and practical
aspects of computers. These include computer architecture,
software engineering, and their integration. Many aspects of
computer science require comprehensive knowledge of other
realms of expertise, such as electronics and information the-
ory.
computer screen The viewing screen of a computer display.
Such a display may be a CRT display, a liquid-crystal dis-
play, a plasma display, and so on.
computer security
computer security Its acronym is COMPUSEC. 1. The
measures taken to protect a computer, the information con-
tained within it, or that which it exchanges with other com-
puters. Protection from eavesdropping or unauthorized ac-
cess may be afforded, for instance, by passwords and en-
cryption. Other modes of protection include biometric tech-
niques, such as retinal scans, which determine if access is
granted to a system. 2. A security system which incorpo-
rates computers. A computer combined with a camera may
be used, for example, to monitor the ingress and egress of
motor vehicles through a property.
computer simulation The use of a computer to imitate an
object or process. Sophisticated software, combined with
accurate input devices, enable a computer to respond
mathematically to factors such as changing conditions, as if
it were the object or process itself. Such simulations may be
used to represent or emulate almost anything, including
weather conditions or biological processes, and may be util-
ized to test new theories. Also called simulation (2).
computer software Also called software. A set of instruc-
tions or programs, which when translated and executed
cause a computer to perform specific operations. Software
is usually classified into two general categories, which are
system software, and application software. System software
includes control programs, such as the operating system,
while application software refers to programs which perform
specific tasks, such as a word processor. Although pro-
gram and software are used mostly synonymously, soft-
ware is a bit more of a general term, as it is used to differen-
tiate from the physical equipment of a computer, the hard-
ware, from the instructions which tell a computer what to
do, the software. An application is both a program and
software, but when using the term software it usually refers
to multiple application programs, or application programs in
general, in which case they are called application software.
computer special effects Same as computer effects.
computer storage 1. A device which provides for the holding
and accessing of data for an indefinite period. Such infor-
mation is kept in a machine-readable format, and should be
maintained intact in the event of an interruption in system
power. The main types of storage media are magnetic, such
as tapes and hard disks, and optical, which include holo-
grams and DVDs. Storage is usually quantified in multiples
of bytes. For example, a computer hard drive with a 256
gigabyte capacity can hold approximately 256 billion bytes,
or characters, of information. Although storage and mem-
ory are often used synonymously, memory refers to a more
temporary form of holding and accessing data, such as that
in RAM. Also called storage (1). 2. The act or process of
placing data in a computer storage device. Also called
storage (2).
computer storage device A device which serves for com-
puter storage (1). Also called storage device.
computer-supported collaborative learning Computer-
aided instruction in which the participants engage in col-
laborative efforts. Such learning usually makes extensive
use of groupware. Its abbreviation is CSCL.
computer-supported collaborative work The use of group-
ware, telepresence, and other computer-based tools to enable
people to work together and enhance their efforts. Its ab-
breviation is CSCW.
computer system The complete complement of components
required for a computer to function. These include the CPU,
keyboard, mouse, monitor, memory, storage mediums, ca-
bles, and so on, which comprise the hardware of the com-
puter itself, plus any necessary peripheral devices. In addi-
tion, a computer system incorporates the operating system.
Also caned system (6).
computer system architecture Same as computer architec-
ture.
137 computerized axial tomography scan
computer telephone integration Same as computer teleph-
ony integration. Its abbreviation is CTI.
computer telephony Same as computer telephony integra-
tion. Its abbreviation is CT.
computer telephony Integration The integration of computer
and telephony technologies. There are numerous applica-
tions, including interactive voice response, automated call
distribution, voice mail, and caller identification where the
stored information associated with that number appears on a
computer screen. Its abbreviation is CTI. Also called com-
puter telephone integration, or computer telephony.
computer telephony Integration application An application,
such as interactive voice response, used in computer te-
lephony integration.
computer terminal 1. A computer input/output device which
incorporates a video adapter, monitor, keyboard, and usually
a mouse. Used in networks. Also called console (3), con-
sole terminal, terminal (1), network terminal (1), or sta-
tion (6). When such a terminal has no processing capability
it is called dumb terminal, while a terminal that incorpo-
rates a CPU and memory does have processing capability,
and is called intelligent terminal. 2. A personal computer
or workstation which is linked to a network. Also called
terminal (2), network terminal (2), or station (7).
computer tomography Same as computed tomography. Its
abbreviation is CT.
computer tomography scan Same as computed tomogra-
phy. Its abbreviation is CT scan.
computer tomography scanner Same as CT scanner.
computer TV Also called pcrrv, TV/~C, or TV computer.
1. A PC, such as that with a TV card, enabled for TV view-
ing. 2. A TV with built-in computer capabilities, such as
Internet access.
computer utility A program that performs tasks pertaining to
the management of computer resources. For instance, such
programs may perform diagnostic functions, or handle the
management of files. Also called utility.
computer virus A computer program or programming code
which replicates by seeking out other programs onto which
to copy itself. It usually passes from computer to computer
through the sharing of infected files, and goes unnoticed un-
til it attacks, unless an antivirus program that recognizes the
virus detects it first. The effects of a virus may be as slight
as a friendly message appearing once on a screen, it might
cause a system crash, or it may reach the extreme of destroy-
ing a hard drive. Also called virus.
computer vision Simulation of vision by the use of a com-
puter along with sophisticated programs which interpret data
from its optical sensors. Used, for example, in robotics.
computer voice A simulation of a human voice generated by
a computer. May be used, for instance, in robotics, or to as-
sist a person with reduced vision which is using a computer.
computer word The fundamental unit of storage for a given
computer architecture. It represents the maximum number
of bits that can be held in its registers and be processed at
one time. A word for computers with a 32-bit data bus is 32
bits, or 4 bytes. A word for computers with a 256-bit data
bus is 256 bits, or 32 bytes, and so on. Also called word, or
machine word.
computerize 1. To use a computer to assist with, or control
one or more actions which would otherwise be done without
one. For instance, to perform calculations, or automate
manufacturing. 2. To equip with one or more computers.
3. To store in a computer or to convert information into a
format a computer can use.
computerized axial tomography Same as computed tomo-
graphy. Its acronym is CAT.
computerized axial tomography scan Same as computed
tomography. Its acronym is CAT scan.
computerized axial tomography scanner 138
computerized axial tomography scanner Same as CT scan-
ner. Its acronym is CAT scanner.
computerized numerical control Same as computer nu-
merical control.
computerized tomography Same as computed tomography.
Its abbreviation is CT.
computerized tomography scan Same as computed tomo-
graphy. Its abbreviation is CT scan.
computerized tomography scanner Same as CT scanner.
computing machine Same as computer.
computing platform A specific hardware and software con-
figuration,including the operating system. When a program
or hardware device will only function properly with a par-
ticular platform, it is called platform-dependent, while
those which can work across multiple platforms are called
platform-independent. Also called computer platform, or
platform.
computing power A measure of the processing power of a
computer. May be quantified, for instance, in terms of the
floating-point operations per second, or FLOPS, it can per-
form. For example, a given supercomputer may be able to
exceed a speed of 35 teraflops. Also called computer
power.
comsat Abbreviationof communications satellite.
COMSEC Abbreviationof communications security.
concatenate To link together, as in a chain. May apply, for
instance, to the linking of transmission channels end-to-end,
or to connecting pieces of optical-fiber. Also called cate-
nate.
concatenation A linking together, as in a chain. Also called
catenation.
concave Having a surface, side, or boundary that curves in-
ward, such as the inner surface of a sphere. This contrasts
with convex, which has a surface or boundary that curves
outward.
concave lens A lens which is thinner at the center than the
edges. Such a lens causes parallel rays of light passing
through it to bend away from one another. This contrasts
with a convex lens, which is thicker at the center than the
edges
concave-convex 1. Concave on one side or surface and con-
vex on the other. Also called convexo-concave (1). 2. Hav-
ing a curvature greater on the concave side than on the con-
vex side.
concavo-convex lens 1. A lens with one concave surface and
one convex surface. Also called convexo-concave lens (1).
2. A lens with one concave surface and one convex surface,
and whose concave surface has a greater curvature.
concentration cell A celI in which the electrodes are each
immersed in a solution with a different concentration of the
same salt of a metal. The electromotive force producedwill
depend on the metal and the concentrations of the solutions.
concentrator 1. A device, such as a multiplexer, which com-
bines multiple communications channels or signals. 2. A
device which provides a communications path that links
many lower-speed channels to one or more higher-speed
channels. A benefit of this arrangement is that it accommo-
dates multiple-user connectivity with a reduced amount of
circuit use. 3. A device which utilizes optical elements to
increase the amount of light, especially sunlight, incident
upon a photovoltaiccell or panel.
concentric cable Same as coaxial cable.
concentric line Same as coaxial cable.
concentric windings Two or more windings, in which the
core is surrounded by one winding, which is enclosedby the
next winding, and so on. Used, for instance, in a trans-
former,
conductance
conceptual schema A detailed model of the overall structure
of a database. This model does not factor in considerations
such as how the information is stored or accessed. Also
called logical schema.
concrete class In object-oriented programming,a class within
which objects may be created. This contrasts with an ab-
stract class, in which no objects may be created.
concurrency 1. The simultaneous, or nearly simultaneous,
accessing of the CPU by multiple computeroperations. 2. The
ability of a computerto properly handlemultiple tasks. 3. The
proper handling of multiple tasks by a computer.
concurrent 1. Occurring or functioning at the same time, or in
a parallel manner. 2. Pertaining to concurrent execution.
concurrent execution Also called concurrent operation,
concurrent processing, or parallel execution. 1. The si-
multaneous execution of multiple computer operations by
the CPU. Since microprocessors can work so quickly, it
seems simultaneous, even though each operation is usually
executed in sequence. 2. The simultaneous execution of
multiple computer operations by multiple CPUs. Such
processors are usually linked by high-speed channels. Also
called multiprocessing.
concurrent operation Same as concurrent execution.
concurrent processing Same as concurrent execution.
concurrent program execution The simultaneous running of
multiplecomputer programs.
condenser 1. A device which changes a gas into a liquid or a
solid. 2. A system of mirrors and/or lenses which collects
light from a source, then directs it onto a surface. Used, for
instance, in a microscope. 3. A nearly obsolete term for ca-
pacitor.
condenser antenna Same as capacitor antenna.
condenser loudspeaker Same as capacitor speaker.
condenser microphone Same as capacitor microphone.
condenser speaker Same as capacitor speaker.
condition code A series of bits that identify a given status,
which depends on previous operations. May be used, for in-
stance, to communicate the current state of a device.
conditional Subject to a given circumstance or state. For
instance,a conditional branch.
conditional branch In a computer program, an instruction
that switches the CPU to another location in memory when a
given condition is met. For example, if the result of a calcu-
lation has a specific result. Also called conditional jump,
or conditional transfer.
conditional jump Same as conditional branch.
conditional stability For a given component, circuit, device,
piece of equipment, or system, stability which is obtained
only when a given parameter, such as the amplitude of its
input signal, is within specified limits. Also called limited
stability.
conditional statement In a computer program, a statement
that is executed when a given condition is met.
conditional transfer Same as conditional branch.
conditioned circuit A telephone circuit which is modified so
as to carry a digital data signal, instead of an analog voice
signal. Such circuits feature noise-filteringcomponents.
conditioning 1. The modifying of devices or equipment, so as
to make them compatible with other devices or equipment.
Used, for instance, to match certain performanceparameters.
2. In telephony, the modifying of twisted pair wire so it can
carry a digital data signal. Also called line conditioning
(1). 3. The modification of a communications line so as to
improveperformance. Also called line conditioning (2).
conductance A measure of the ability of a component, circuit,
device, or system to conduct electricity. In a circuit with no
reactance it is the reciprocal of resistance. It is the real part
conducted interference 139
of admittance, its symbol is G, and is expressed in siemens.
Also known as electrical conductance.
conducted interference Interference, such as RF noise, which
is propagated by means of communications or power lines.
conducting direction For an electrical or electronic compo-
nent or device, the direction in which there is lesser resis-
tance to the flow of current. Used, for instance, in the con-
text of semiconductors. This contrasts with inverse direc-
tion, where the converse is true. Also called forward direc-
tion.
conduction 1. The transmission of energy through a medium
without the medium itself moving as a whole. Electrical,
acoustic, or heat energy may be propagated in this manner.
For instance, the transmission of electrical energy through a
metal entailing the migration of electrons through the con-
ductor. This contrasts with convection, where the medium
itself is moved, and with radiation, where waves or parti-
cles are emitted. 2. The flow of electrical charge through a
medium. This may entail, for instance the movement of
electrons through a metal conductor, or the migration of ions
in a gas. Also called electrical conduction.
conduction band A partially filled energy band in which
electrons can move freely under the influence of an electric
field, thus producing a net transport of electric charge.
conduction current Electric current which flows through a
body by means of electrons present in a conduction band.
conduction electrons Electrons present in a conduction
band. Also called valence electrons, outer-shell electrons,
or peripheral electrons.
conduction field An energy field surrounding a conductor
through which an electric current is flowing.
conductive Pertaining to, or capable of conduction.
conductive coating A coating which serves to facilitate con-
duction. For instance, an antistatic coating applied on a TV
screen to prevent dust from adhering to the surface.
conductive coupling A direct connection between circuits,
utilizing a wire, resistor, or another means of physical con-
tact that passes both AC and DC. Also called direct cou-
pling.
conductivity The ease with which an electric current can flow
through a body. It is the reciprocal of resistivity. Its sym-
bol is (1, and it is expressed in siemens per meter. Also
called electrical conductivity, or specific conductance.
conductivity meter A device which measures and indicates
conductivity.
conductivity modulation In a semiconductor, a variation in
conductivity through the variation of charge-carrier concen-
tration.
conductivity-modulation transistor A transistor whose
active properties are achieved through conductivity modu-
lation.
conductor 1. A medium suitable for the conduction of electri-
cal, acoustic, heat, or other form of energy. 2. A medium
which allows electric current to flow easily. Such a medium
may be a metal wire, a dissolved electrolyte, or an ionized
gas, among others. Among the elements, silver, copper, and
gold are the best electric conductors. Also known as elec-
tric conductor.
conductor skin effect The tendency of AC to flow near the
surface of a conductor. This effect becomes more pro-
nounced as frequency rises, so losses due to resistance be-
come greater with frequency increases. A conductor made
from many separately-insulated wire strands which are
woven together or braided in a manner that each strand regu-
larly assumes each of the possible positions within the over-
all cross-section of the conductor minimizes this effect, pro-
viding for lower losses at radio frequencies. Also called
skin effect.
configuration
conduit A pipe or tube through which cables or wires are run.
A conduit may be made of metal, plastic, or another material
which affords protection and/or shielding.
cone 1. A geometric shape with a circular or other c1osed-
plane base, whose sides taper off along a diagonal line to a
common vertex. 2. Anything resembling a cone (1). 3. The
cone-shaped diaphragm of a cone speaker.
cone antenna A wideband antenna whose radiating element is
in the shape of a cone (1). Also called conical antenna.
cone loudspeaker Same as cone speaker.
cone of protection A cone-shaped zone below a lightning rod,
which provides a region with a highly reduced probability of
a lightning strike. This cone extends 45 from the tip of the
rod, which is the vertex of the cone. Such a cone may be
used to protect stationary or moving objects.
cone of silence A cone-shaped zone above a radio beacon
transmitter, where the intensity of the signal is greatly re-
duced. This zone is in the form of an inverted cone extend-
ing from the antenna, which is the vertex of said cone.
cone resonance Resonance of a cone speaker. Such reso-
nance occurs in speci fie frequency intervals, and produces
excessive radiation from the cone. The proper design of the
speaker and its enclosure help minimize this undesired vi-
bration.
cone-resonance frequency The frequency at which cone
resonance is greatest.
cone speaker A speaker utilizing one or more cone-shaped
vibrating elements. Such cones may be made of paper, fi-
ber, plastic, metal, or another material. The larger a cone,
the better its output of lower frequencies, and the smaller a
cone, the better its output of higher frequencies. Frequently,
multiple cones are used in such speakers, for a more bal-
anced reproduction of sound. Also called cone loud-
speaker.
conference call A' telephone cal1 in which three or more sepa-
rate lines are connected at once.
conferencing The holding or participating in a meeting utiliz-
ing computer and/or telecommunications technology. For
instance, teleconferencing, videoconferencing, or data con-
ferencing, Such conferencing usually includes participants
in different locations.
confidence coefficient Same as confidence level.
confidence factor Same as confidence level.
confidence interval An interval or range of values within
which the theoretical probability of an event occurring may
be specified. For instance, the probability of a failure occur-
ring within a given time period. The wider the interval, the
greater the confidence that the event will occur.
confidence level The probability that a confidence interval
will contain a given event. May be expressed, for instance,
as a percentage. Also called confidence coefficient, or con-
fidence factor.
confidence limits The upper and lower limits of a confidence
interval.
confidentiality, integrity, and availability For a given entity,
such as a business, procedures implemented to help insure
that information is shared only with the intended individuals
or entities, that the data transmitted, received, processed, or
otherwise handled is complete and accurate, and that the
pertinent systems and means are available when needed for
delivery, reception, processing, storage and the like.
config.sys Same as CONFIG.SYS.
CONFIG.SYS A configuration file in some operating sys-
tems.
configuration The arrangement of the components of a cir-
cuit, device, piece of equipment, system, or network. For
instance, the hardware and/or software setup a computer
configuration diagram
may have, or the arrangement of circuit components so as to
achieve a desired function. In computers, specific products
or functions may require certain system configuration mini-
mums, such as RAM exceeding a particular value, or the
presence of a given adapter card.
configuration diagram A diagram in which labeled blocks,
usually squares and/or rectangles, are used to represent the
components of a system which are linked via connecting ar-
rows and/or lines that depict their functional relationships.
Such diagrams may show a circuit schematic, hardware and
software interconnections, and so on. Also called block
diagram.
configuration file A file that contains information about a
program, file, computer system, or user.
configuration management 1. A system for configuring
networks or large projects. 2. A system for monitoring and
managing configurations of networks or large projects.
configure To set the configuration of a circuit, device, piece
of equipment, system, or network.
conformal antenna An antenna, such as that consisting of an
amorphous metal, which conforms to the shape of a given
surface or area.
conformal coating A thin and non-conductive coating applied
to a circuit or device to provide protection from moisture or
other environmental concerns. Such a coating, for instance,
may be a plastic which is sprayed on.
conic section A geometric figure produced by the intersection
of a plane and a cone. Examples include circles, ellipses,
parabolas, and hyperbolas.
conical Pertaining to, or in the shape of a cone (1). For in-
stance, a conical hom.
conical antenna Same as cone antenna
conical horn A hom in the shape of a cone. Horns of such
shape may be used in speakers, antennas, and other devices.
conical horn antenna A wideband antenna whose radiating
element is a conical horn.
conical monopole antenna A wideband antenna consisting of
a biconical antenna in which the lower cone is replaced by a
ground plane.
conical scanning In radars, scanning in which the major lobe
is in the form of a cone. The antenna is at the vertex of the
cone.
conjugate branches Two branches of an electric network in
which a change in electromotive force in one does not pro-
duce a change in electromotive force in the other. Also
called conjugate conductors.
conjugate bridge A bridge, which when compared to a con-
ventional bridge, has the positions of the detector circuit and
supply circuit exchanged.
conjugate conductors Same as conjugate branches.
conjugate impedances Two impedances in which the resis-
tive components are equal, and whose reactive components
are equal in magnitude, but opposite in sign.
conjugate particles A pair of particles consisting of a particle
and its antiparticle. For instance, a proton and an antiproton.
conjunction A logical operation which is true only if all of its
elements are true. For example, if three. out of three input
bits have a value of 1, then the output is 1. Any other com-
bination yields an output of O. For such functions, a 1 is
considered as a true, or high, value, and 0 is a false, or low,
value. Also called AND, or intersection (2).
connect To join together. For example, to connect by means
of a communications circuit, or to connect circuit compo-
nents in parallel.
connect charge The amount that must be paid when there is a
fee associated with a given connect time (1), or connect
time (2). Such a fee may be hourly, monthly, by speed of
connection, and so on. Also called connection charge.
140 conservation of energy
connect time Also called connection time. 1. The time dur-
ing which a user is logged-on to a computer and/or network.
2. The time that elapses during a telephone call. 3. The time
it takes to establish a connection.
connected Joined together.
connection 1. The act of joining together, or connecting.
2. The manner in which components are joined together.
For instance, a cascade connection. 3. The point at which
components are joined together. 4. The state of being joined
together.
connection charge Same as connect charge.
connection diagram A diagram in which electrical connec-
tions between components, devices, equipment, or systems,
are detailed.
connection-oriented A mode of communication in which a
direct and dedicated connection between two nodes must be
established before transmission and reception can occur.
Once the transmission is concluded, the connection is termi-
nated. ATM and regular telephone connections are of this
nature. This contrasts with connectionless.
connection-oriented network protocol A network protocol
which in which a direct and dedicated connection between
two nodes must be established before transmission and re-
ception can occur. Once the transmission is concluded the
connection is terminated. Its abbreviation is CONP.
connection time Same as connect time.
connectionless A mode of communication in which a direct
connection between two nodes is not necessary before
transmission. Each packet contains the source and destina-
tion addresses, and is routed through the network until it
reaches the specified destination. LANs are connection less.
This contrasts with connection-oriented.
connectionless network protocol A network protocol in
which a direct connection between two nodes is not neces-
sary before transmission. Its abbreviation is CLNP.
connection less network service A network service in which a
direct connection between two nodes is not necessary before
transmission. Its abbreviation is CLNS.
connectivity 1. The ability to establish a connection. 2. The
ability to maintain a connection. 3. The state of being con-
nected.
connector 1. That which serves to connect. 2. A device or
object which serves to join two or more conductors. Exam-
ples include terminals and binding posts. AIso called elec-
tric connector (1). 3. A device or object which serves to
couple cables with other cables, equipment, or systems. Ex-
amples include plugs, jacks, and adapters. Also called elec-
tric connector (2). 4. A line which connects symbols in a
flow chart.
connector insertion tool A tool which assists in the proper
insertion of contacts into a connector, connectors into circuit
boards, and so on. Also called insertion tool.
CONP Abbreviation of connection-oriented network proto-
col.
conservation of charge A law that states that the total charge
in an isolated system never changes. This means, for in-
stance, that if a positive charge is created in an isolated sys-
tem, that an equal negative charge will also appear in the
system. Also called law of charge conservation, or charge
conservation.
conservation of energy Also called energy conservation. 1. A
law which states that energy cannot be created nor destroyed
in an isolated system, but that it can be changed from one
form to another. For instance, kinetic energy being trans-
formed into potential energy, while the total energy in the
system remains constant. Also called law of energy con-
servation. 2. The judicious use of available energy re-
sources.
conservation of mass 141
conservation of mass A law which states that mass, or matter,
cannot be cannot be created nor destroyed in an isolated sys-
tem. For instance, the mass remains constant when a sub-
stance changes form a solid to a gas in an isolated system.
This law does not always hold true when dealing with sub-
atomic particles. Also called conservation of matter, law
of mass conservation, or mass conservation.
conservation of matter Same as conservation of mass.
console 1. A control panel for electronic equipment, such as
that at a TV station or radar station. Also known as control
desk. 2. A terminal utilized to control a computer and
monitor its status. Also called master console. 3. Same as
computer terminal (1). 4. A display screen which presents
the output of a computer. S. A cabinet, that houses a device
such as a radio or TV, which is designed to stand on the
floor.
console switch A switch in a console (2) which allows a user
to control a computer while it executes instructions.
console terminal Same as computer terminal (1).
constant Its abbreviation is K. 1. A quantity, value, item, or
state which remains the same during a given process. For
instance, a fixed value in a computer program, or an attenua-
tion constant. 2. A value, quantity, item, or state which re-
mains the same always. For instance, the rest mass of an
electron.
constant-amplitude recording Sound recording in which all
the frequencies of equal intensity are recorded with equal
amplitude. In this manner, the recorded amplitude is inde-
pendent of the frequency.
constant angular velocity In magnetic and optical storage,
the rotating of a disk in a drive at a steady rate, regardless of
what area of the disk is being accessed. Since the tracks on
the disk are longer as the outer edge is approached, more in-
formation is available there. This contrasts with constant
linear .velocity, in which the disk rotates at a variable rate.
Its abbreviation is CAY.
constant bit rate An ATM minimum continuous bit rate that
is guaranteed to be maintained, for reliable time-sensitive
transmissions, such as those including voice and video. Its
abbreviation is CDR.
constant-conductance network A network having at least
one input impedance which is a positive constant. Also
called constant-resistance network.
constant current A current which is essentially constant,
despite variations in variables such as load resistance, line
voltage, or temperature, so long as they are within a pre-
scribed range.
constant-current generator A generator whose output cur-
rent is essentially constant, despite variations of the load re-
sistance within a prescribed range.
constant-current modulation A system of amplitude modu-
lation, in which the output circuits of the signal amplifier
and the modulator are connected to a constant-current sup-
ply by means of a shared choke coil. Also called choke-
coupled modulation, or Reising modulation.
constant-current power source Same as constant-current
source.
constant-current power supply Same as constant-current
source.
constant-current source A power supply whose output cur-
rent is essentially constant, despite variations in variables
such as load resistance, line voltage, and temperature, so
long as they are within a prescribed range. Also called con-
stant-current supply, constant-current power supply,
constant-current power source, current-regulated sup-
ply, or current-regulated power supply.
constant-current supply Same as constant-current source.
contact
constant-current transformer A transformer, which when
supplied by an essentially constant voltage source, maintains
an essentially constant current in its secondary circuit, de-
spite variations of the load resistance within a prescribed
range.
constant-k filter A filter whose product of the series and
shunt element impedances is a constant that is independent
of frequency.
constant-k network A ladder network whose product of the
series and shunt element impedances is a constant that is in-
dependent of frequency.
constant linear velocity In magnetic and optical storage, the
rotating of a disk in a drive at a varying rate, depending on
the area of the disk which is being accessed. Since the
tracks on the disk are longer as the outer edge is approached,
the disk must be rotated more slowly when accessing there,
to ensure a constant data read rate. This contrasts with con-
stant angular velocity, in which the disk rotates at a steady
rate. Its abbreviation is eLY.
constant-resistance network Same as constant-conductance
network.
constant-speed motor A motor whose speed is essentially
constant, despite variations of the load within a prescribed
range.
constant voltage A voltage which is essentially constant,
despite variations in variables such as load resistance, line
voltage, or temperature, so long as they are within a pre-
scribed range.
constant-voltage charge A battery charge in which the volt-
age at the terminals is essentially constant.
constant-voltage power supply Same as constant-voltage
source.
constant-voltage source A power supply whose output volt-
age is essentially constant, despite variations in variables
such as load resistance, line voltage, and temperature, so
long as they are within a prescribed range. Also called con-
stant-voltage supply, constant-voltage power supply, or
voltage-regulated power supply.
constant-voltage supply Same as constant-voltage source.
constant-voltage transformer A transformer that delivers an
essentially constant voltage when supplied with a primary
voltage that is within a certain range.
constantan An alloy containing between 40 to 45% nickel,
and between 55 to 60% copper. Used, for instance, in ther-
mocouples and resistors.
constructive Interference The interaction of two or more
waves resulting an increase in amplitude. This contrasts
with destructive interference, where there is a reduction in
amplitude, or cancellation.
consumer appliance A powered device intended for home
use, which is designed to help do work, perform tasks, or to
assist in providing comfort or convenience. These usually
use electrical energy, and include dryers, lamps, refrigera-
tors, and microwave ovens. Precision electronics, such as
high-fidelity audio components and computers are some-
times not included in this group.
consumer electronics Electronic products intended for pur-
chase and use by consumers. Such products include TV s,
computers, cellular phones, DVD players, high-fidelity au-
dio components, and smart appliances. When referring spe-
cifically to products to be used in a home, also called do-
mestic electronics.
contact 1. The coming together, touching, union, or junction
of surfaces or objects. 2. The junction of two conductors, so
that current may flow. Also called electric contact (1). 3. A
part or device which serves to open or close an electric cir-
cuit. Such a part or device mayor may not act with another
part or device. For instance, a blade, metal strip, button,
contact arc
switch, or relay. Also called electric contact (2). 4. The
establishment of a communication. S. In radars, the initial
detection of a scanned object.
contact arc An arc that forms between electric contacts when
a circuit is opened.
contact arcing The formation of a contact arc.
contact area The surface area shared by electric contacts
when a circuit is closed.
contact blade A flat moving conductor used as an electric
contact.
contact bounce An undesired condition in which there is a
spontaneous opening, or the intermittent opening or closing
of contacts, when such contacts are moved to the open or
closed position. Also called bounce (2).
contact button A button used as an electric contact.
contact chatter The continuous, rapid, and undesired opening
and closing of electric contacts. May be caused, for in-
stance, by contact bounce. Also called chatter (2).
contact clip A clip which grasps a contact blade, to close a
circuit.
contact electromotive force Same as contact emf.
contact emf A potential difference that is developed between
contacts that are made of two dissimilar materials. This po-
tential difference may be a few tenths of a volt. Also known
as contact electromotive force, contact potential differ-
ence, contact potential, or Volta effect.
contact erosion In electric contacts, the gradual loss of mate-
rial due to sparks, arcs, and the such. The addition of cad-
mium to an alloy used in contacts may help reduce such ero-
sion. Also called electrical erosion.
contact follow The additional distance that contacts travel
together, after their initial contact. Also called contact
overtravel.
contact force 1. The force holding contacts together. 2. The
force a moving contact exerts on a stationary contact.
contact gap The maximum distance between contacts, when
in the open position. Also called contact separation.
Contact Image Sensor A image sensor with limited resolu-
tion utilized in scanners which are smaller and less expen-
sive than those utilizing CCDs. Its abbreviation is CIS.
contact material A material that can serve as an electric
contact. Such materials may be metals such as copper, sil-
ver, gold, or palladium, or an alloy based on these or other
suitable metals. Contact materials should have high thermal
and electric conductivities, minimum sticking tendencies,
and high resistance to corrosion, among other characteris-
tics.
contact microphone A microphone, such as a throat micro-
phone, which picks up vibrations by being in direct contact
with the body producing them. Such microphones may be
used, for instance, when extraneous noise is a problem.
contact noise A disturbance, due to fluctuating resistance,
produced at the point where two metals or a metal and a
semiconductor are joined.
contact overtravel Same as contact follow.
contact piston A piston, which as it slides, maintains contact
with the inner walls of a waveguide at all times. Also called
contact plunger.
contact plunger Same as contact piston.
contact potential Same as contact emf.
contact potential difference Same as contact emf.
contact pressure The pressure holding contacts together.
contact protection The use of a contact protector.
contact protector A component, device, or system utilized to
suppress the arc that forms between electric contacts when a
142 content provider
circuit is opened. A capacitor, for instance, may be used for
this purpose.
contact rectifier A rectifier which utilizes one or more metal
disks coated with a semiconductor layer. This layer may
consist of selenium, copper oxide, or another suitable semi-
conductor. The rectification occurs as a result of the greater
conductivity across the contact in one direction than the
other. Also called semiconductor rectifier (1), metallic-
disk rectifier, dry rectifier, or dry-disk rectifier.
contact resistance The resistance between two contacts when
a circuit is closed. This resistance is very small, usually a
fraction of an ohm.
contact sensor A device which detects objects through physi-
cal contact with them. These sensors may be used in robots,
for example, to determine the location, identity, and orienta-
tion of parts to be assembled.
contact separation Same as contact gap ..
contact spark A spark that forms between electric contacts
when a circuit is opened.
contact sparking The formation of a contact spark.
contact wire t. A thin and flexible wire utilized to make
electric contact. Used, for instance, to make electric contact
on the surface of a semiconductor. 2. A wire utilized to
make electric contact.
contactless smart card A smart card, such as a proximity
card, which does not have to come into contact with the de-
vice reading it.
eontactless smart card reader A reader, such as a proximity
card reader, utilized to detect data contained in contactless
smart cards.
contactor 1. A heavy-duty relay utilized to control and/or
switch electric circuits, such as power circuits. Also called
power relay (2). 2. In a control system, a device utilized to
connect and disconnect a component, circuit, device, piece
of equipment, mechanism, or system from a source of
power.
contaminant An undesired material or substance that can
adversely affect the properties of a component, circuit, de-
vice, piece of equipment, system, material, or medium.
content Information, especially that which is available online,
which may be any combination of text, audio, video, files, or
the like.
content-addressable memory Computer memory which is
accessed by content rather than by address. It is often used
in memory-management units, and comparison logic is in-
cluded with each bit of storage. Its acronym is CAM. Also
known as content-addressable storage, active memory,
active storage, associative storage, or associative mem-
ory.
content-addressable storage Same as content-addressable
memory.
content aggregator An entity that gathers Information from
multiple Web sites and provides said content to others.
Such content, for instance, can help keep users more time at
a the collector's site, might be offered as a premium service,
or may be sold to content providers.
content filter A program or utility which seeks to detect
advertising and other bothersome or undesirable content be-
fore its loaded onto a Web page being accessed. Such a
program, for instance, can filter Web page content, protect
privacy, prevent pop-up ads from appearing, avert banner
ads, eliminate certain JavaScript, stop animated GIFs, turn
off ActiveX, disable Web bugs, and so on. Also called Web
filter, Web content filter, Internet filter, or blocking
software.
content provider An entity that provides information content
for the Internet, or for software-based products, such as CD-
ROMs. Such information may be any combination of text,
content server 143
audio, video, and so on. Examples include those who pro-
vide Web page or online encyclopedia content.
content server A server that stores online content.
contention 1. The condition that results when two or more
devices simultaneously attempt to use a single resource. For
instance, when two or more stations attempt to transmit si-
multaneously over the same channel. 2. A method for the
allocation of resources, in which two or more devices com-
pete for the same resource. For instance, two or more sta-
tions attempting to transmit simultaneously over the same
channel, and the outcome being determined through conten-
tion resolution.
contention resolution The rules which determine the order in
which a resource will be used when two or more devices at-
tempt to access it simultaneously.
context sensitive A computer program feature that varies
according to the specific task a user is attempting to accom-
plish. For instance, a program may provide different tips on
the solving of a given problem, depending on the stage that
is currently being worked on.
context-sensitive help Help which varies according to the
task a user is working on.
context switching The act of changing from one active com-
puter application to another. For instance, the switching
from a word-processing program to a Web browser, with
both programs running before and after the switch. Also
called task switching.
contextual menu A menu that only offers choices, items, or
the like, which are applicable to the location on the screen
clicked upon. Such menus are often accessed by right click-
ing at the desired point, and vary by application, task, and so
on.
contiguous 1. Touching in some manner, such as sharing an
edge or boundary. 2. Adjacent or nearby. For instance, data
in a group of contiguous storage blocks.
contingency plan The measures taken to minimize the delete-
rious effects of a possible disaster. These include data
backup to a remote site, and making the necessary arrange-
ments for key hardware to be available during such an event.
Also called disaster recovery plan (2).
continuity 1. The condition or characteristic of being con-
tinuous or unbroken. 2. Same as circuit continuity.
continuity checker Same as continuity tester.
continuity test A test to determine whether a circuit has a
continuous and complete path for the flow of current. If
there isn't a continuous and complete path, such a test may
be used to determine where the circuit is broken.
continuity tester A device which performs continuity tests.
Also called continuity checker.
continuity testing The performance of continuity tests.
continuous Uninterrupted in time, function, effect, or se-
quence.
continuous carrier 1. An uninterrupted carrier signal. 2. A
carrier signal which is not interrupted while transmitting in-
formation.
continuous circuit Same as closed circuit (1).
continuous control A method of automatic control in which
one or more quantities are monitored continuously, and any
necessary adjustments are made in order to maintain opera-
tion within the specified parameters. An automatic control-
ler may be used for this purpose.
continuous current 1. A unidirectional current which has an
essentially constant average value. A continuous current
may fluctuate, pulse, spike, and so on, but its polarity does
not change. Sources of continuous current include batteries,
photovoltaic cells, and DC generators. Also called DC (l).
2. A steady current, as opposed to that which is varied, or
started and stopped at intervals.
contrast
continuous duty Operation of a device, piece of equipment,
or system, at an essentially constant load for an extended,
usually indefinite, period of time.
continuous-duty rating A rating which defines the maximum
load that a device, piece of equipment, or system can carry
for an indefinite period, without exceeding a given increase
in temperature.
continuous loading Loading in which the added inductance is
provided by a continuous wrapping of a magnetic material
around each conductor of the transmission line.
continuous operating temperature .The maximum tempera-
ture at which a component, device, piece of equipment, or
system can continuously operate without harmful effects,
such as overheating or an excessive reduction of useful life.
continuous operation A mode of operation in which a com-
ponent, circuit, device, piece of equipment, or system is op-
erational at all times. This contrasts, for instance, with
pulsed or intermittent operation.
continuous power The maximum power an amplifier, such as
an audio-frequency amplifier, can deliver for a stated time
interval. May be expressed in watts RMS.
continuous rating A rating which defines the maximum load
that a device, piece of equipment, or system can carry for an
indefinite period without harmful effects, such as exceeding
a given increase in temperature. This contrasts with a short-
time rating, which is that which can be carried for periods
not exceeding a given interval.
continuous spectrum A spectrum of frequencies which is
uninterrupted, as opposed to being broken up into lines
and/or bands.
continuous tone An image, such as a photograph, which is
not composed of a dot pattern, as is the case with halftones.
A dye-sublimation printer, for instance, may be able to ap-
proach such an output.
continuous-transmission frequency-modulated sonar A
sonar system in which a continuously transmitted frequency-
modulated signal is varied in a sawtooth fashion, and which
determines the range of objects by the difference between
the emitted and received frequencies at any given moment.
Its abbreviation is CTFM sonar.
continuous variable A variable that can assume any value
within a continuous and infinitely variable range. For in-
stance, the amplitude of an analog signal.
continuous wave Its abbreviation is CWo 1. An electromag-
netic wave whose frequency, phase, and amplitude are con-
stant. Also known as Type A wave. 2. One of multiple
waves which are transmitted continuously, as opposed to in-
termittently or pulsed.
continuous-wave Doppler radar Same as continuous-wave
radar.
continuous-wave laser A laser whose production of coherent
light is continuous rather than pulsed. Used, for instance, in
some forms of laser welding. Its abbreviation is CW laser.
continuous-wave radar A radar system in which RF energy
is transmitted continuously. A small proportion of this en-
ergy is reflected back by the scanned object, and is received
by a separate antenna. Moving targets are detected using the
Doppler effect. This contrasts with a pulsed radar, in
which RF energy is emitted in pulses. Its abbreviation is
CW radar. Also called continuous-wave Doppler radar.
contrast 1. On a display screen, such as that of a computer or
TV, the difference in brightness between areas that are
lighter and darker. Also called screen contrast (I). 2. On a
display screen, such as that of a computer or TV, the differ-
ence in brightness between the lightest and darkest areas.
Also called screen contrast (2). 3. In optical character rec-
ognition, differences in qualities such as color or shading,
which help distinguish a character from the background.
contrast control 144
contrast control A circuit, device, or system which controls
the contrast (2) of reproduced images.
contrast medium A substance, usually a dye, which is intro-
duced into an organ or other internal body structure which is
to analyzed via X-rays, MRI, or other similar medical diag-
nostic procedure, so as to enhance resolution.
contrast range The brightness interval between the lightest
and darkest areas on a display screen, such as that of a com-
puter or TV.
contrast ratio 1. For a display screen, such as that of a com-
puter or TV, the ratio of the brightness of the lightest areas,
to that of the darkest areas. 2. For a display screen, such as
that of a computer or TV, the ratio of the maximum lumi-
nance, to the minimum luminance.
control 1. A circuit, device, component, piece of equipment,
signal, mechanism, or system, or a combination of these,
that operates, regulates, or manages. For instance, a control
panel. 2. The operating, regulating, or managing effect a
circuit. device, component, piece of equipment, signal, or
system has. 3. The means by which a control system main-
tains the desired output. 4. A single factor or variable which
is varied in two or more experiments in which the remaining
factors and variables are held constant. This is done to bet-
ter determine the influence of the factor or variable in ques-
tion. 5. An object appearing on a computer screen, such as a
push-button or scroll bar, which helps perform an action in a
program. 6. Same as control key.
control accuracy In a control system, the level of correspon-
dence between the controlled value and the ideal or speci-
fied value.
control action In a control system, an action taken to main-
tain the desired output.
control agent In a control system, an agent which controls a
variable.
control block A block of computer memory that contains
information used for control purposes.
control board Same as control panel (1).
Control-Break Same as Ctrl-Break.
control bus The conductors which carry control information
between the CPU and other devices within a computer. For
instance, interrupt request signals are sent over these con-
ductors.
control center A location, device, console, terminal, or sta-
tion which operates, regulates, or manages devices, equip-
ment, or systems.
control channel A channel, such as a communications chan-
nel, that transmits control information.
control character 1. A character utilized to control a device,
computer, piece of equipment, or system. 2. Within the
ASCII character set, a control character (1). Such a char-
acter has an assigned numeric value, representing an ASCII
code, and controls a function such as backspace. 3. A char-
acter which is typed in conjunction with the control key,
such as control-A. The specific function for any given key
combination will depend on which program is running.
control circuit 1. A circuit utilized to control a device, piece
of equipment, system, or process. 2. In a computer, a circuit
which responds to instructions, such as those of a control
program.
control+click To press a computer mouse button while hold-
ing down the control key. Used, for instance, to add or re-
move an item to or from an already populated selection. In
this context it is better suited for non-consecutive items,
while a shift+click is simpler for consecutive items. Its ab-
breviation is Ctrl+click.
control+clicking To select and deselect utilizing con-
trol+clicks.
control panel
control code 1. A code utilized to control a device, computer,
piece of equipment, or system. 2. In computers, a code
which controls an action. Such codes may be in the form of
control characters, and are utilized to control programs, pe-
ripheral devices, and the like.
control component A component utilized to control a device,
piece of equipment, system, or process.
control computer A computer utilized in a control system.
Used, for instance, to monitor selected parameters and send
signals which maintain the desired output.
control counter Same as control register.
control data Computer data utilized to control data, pro-
grams, or hardware devices. Also called control informa-
tion (1).
control desk Same as console (1).
control device A device which controls a given mechanism,
piece of equipment, function, process, or system. An exam-
ple is an infrared remote control for electronic equipment.
control diagram Also called control flow diagram, flow-
chart, or flow diagram. 1. A diagram which uses a set of
standard symbols to represent the sequence of operations of
a system. 2. A diagram which uses a set of standard sym-
bols to represent the sequence of operations of a computer
program or system. Such a chart may show, for instance,
the flow of data or the steps of a subroutine.
control electrode An electrode whose input is used to regu-
late the current of one or more other electrodes. For in-
stance, the gate electrode in a field-effect transistor.
control element An element utilized to control a device, piece
of equipment, system, or process.
control field In a computer record, a field which contains
control information, such as the type of packet being trans-
mitted.
control flow diagram Same as control diagram.
control function A function which controls a given piece of
equipment, process, or system. For example, functions of a
computer operating system.
control grid The control electrode in a vacuum tube. It is
usually placed between the cathode and the anode.
control-grid bias In a vacuum tube, the average DC voltage
applied between the control grid and the cathode.
control information I, Same as control data. 2. Any infor-
mation utilized for control purposes.
control instruction A computer instruction utilized to control
data, programs, or hardware devices. For instance, an in-
struction pertaining to the operation of a peripheral. Also
called control statement (2).
control key A modifier key included on computer keyboards
that is used in combination with other keys to generate a
function. The specific function for any given key combina-
tion will depend on which program is running. Also called
control (6). Its abbreviation is Ctrl, or Ctrl key.
control knob A knob utilized to control or adjust the settings
of a device or piece of equipment.
control language A set of language statements utilized to
control programs or hardware devices. For example, a
printer control language.
control logic The sequence of steps that hardware or software
follow, to perform control functions.
control mark A control character or code which indicates a
subdivision in a magnetic tape file. Also known as tape
mark (2). Its abbreviation is eM.
control panel 1. A panel in which there are multiple indica-
tors and devices, such as switches and dials, which enable a
user to monitor and control a system. Used, for instance, to
control an aircraft. Also called control board, or panel (1).
2. In a computer, a utility program which enables a user to
control panel program 145
set many system parameters, such as keyboard and mouse
characteristics, monitor resolution, and printer settings.
Also called control panel program.
control panel program Same as control panel (2).
control parallel A computer architecture in which multiple
processors simultaneously and independently execute differ-
ent instructions on different sets of data. Also called multi-
ple instruction stream-multiple data stream.
control point In an automatic control system, the target value
towards which the system makes adjustments. In the case of
a thermostat, for instance, it would be a given temperature.
control processor A processor used in a control system.
control program A program which controls the operations of
a computer, performing tasks such as managing system re-
sources. An operating system is an example of such a pro-
gram.
control register In a CPU, a register that contains the address
of the location in memory that is to be accessed by the next
instruction. May also refer to the address of the current in-
struction. Also called by various other names, including
control counter, current-instruction register, program
counter, program register, instruction register, instruc-
tion counter, and sequence register.
control rod A material utilized to control the reactivity of a
nuclear reactor by absorbing neutrons. Examples include
gadolinium, boron, and europium.
control room A room which houses the necessary devices
and equipment to monitor and control a facility such as a TV
recording studio or a nuclear power plant.
control sequence The order in which computer instructions
are executed. For instance, the sequence followed while
performing a given task.
control signal I. A signal utilized to control a device or proc-
ess. In a computer, for instance, such a signal may be an in-
terrupt request. 2. In telecommunications, a signal that
transmits control information. For example, a customer
picks up a telephone receiver, hears a dial tone, dials a se-
quence of digits, and then gets a busy signal. All the tones
heard are control signals.
control statement 1. A computer statement which controls
the flow of execution of a program. For instance, an IF-
THEN statement. 2. Same as control instruction.
control station Within a communications network, the station
that manages all operations, such as the orderly flow of traf-
fic.
control system A system utilized to maintain one or more
output quantities within specified parameters. In a closed-
loop control system, a feedback signal is incorporated for
this purpose, while in an open-loop control system there is
no such feedback. The components of a control system may
be electrical, mechanical, thermal, and so on.
control total A total, composed of several numbers taken
from a file, which is calculated before, during, and after
processing. The numbers utilized to calculate the total do
not necessarily have to be taken from numeric data. Control
totals are used to verify the accuracy of processed data, or to
help ensure that transmitted messages have not been tam-
pered with. At all stages the calculated totals must match,
otherwise there is an error. Also called hash total.
control track A track on a recordable magnetic medium, such
as a tape or a disk, containing control signals such as tape
playback speed.
control transformer A transformer utilized to supply a con-
trol device.
control unit t. In a computer, circuitry that performs control
functions such as sending control signals, interpreting pro-
gram instructions, handling peripherals, or managing access
convection cooling
to memory locations. 2. A unit which controls a given
mechanism, piece of equipment, function, process, or sys-
tem.
control winding A winding that carries a current that controls
the output of a machine.
control word A computer word which stores information
used for a control function.
controlled-avalanche device A semiconductor device with
precisely defined avalanche voltage characteristics. Such
devices can absorb repeated momentary power surges with-
out damage.
controlled-avalanche diode A semiconductor diode with
precisely defined avalanche voltage characteristics. Such
diodes can absorb repeated momentary power surges with-
out damage, and can be used, for instance, for surge sup-
pression.
controlled-carrier modulation A type of amplitude modula-
tion in which the amplitude of the carrier wave is varied ac-
cording to the percentage of modulation, providing for an
essentially constant modulation factor. Also called floating-
carrier modulation, or variable-carrier modulation.
controlled environment An enclosure, such as a room, in
which measures are taken to provide an environment that
meets certain requirements, such as maintaining a speci fied
level of temperature and/or humidity, guarding against static
electricity or electromagnetic radiation, or isolating from
dust. Such environments may be used, for instance, for test-
ing, or to protect sensitive electronic equipment.
controlled-path robot A robot whose movements are dictated
by a controlled-path system.
controlled-path system A computer control system in which
a path of movement is numerically described. Used, for in-
stance, in robotics.
controlled rectifier A rectifier, such as a silicon-controlled
rectifier, whose output current may be regulated.
controller 1. A circuit board or device which controls the way
peripheral devices access the computer, and vice versa. It is
usuaJly contained on a single chip. Examples include disk
controllers, graphics controllers, and video controllers. Also
called peripheral controller, or host adapter. 2. A signal,
circuit, device, or system which controls any given mecha-
nism, function, process, or piece of equipment. An example
is an infrared remote control for electronic equipment. 3. A
circuit, mechanism, device, or system, which monitors one
or more variables, and automatically makes the necessary
adjustments in order to maintain operation within the speci-
fied parameters. Also known as automatic controller. 4. The
computer and programs which control a robot. Also called
controller system, or robot controller.
controller card A circuit board which controls the way pe-
ripheral devices access the computer, and vice versa. Ex-
amples include disk controllers, graphics controllers, and
SCSI controllers.
controller system 1. A system which monitors one or more
variables, and automatically makes the necessary adjust-
ments, in order to maintain operation within the specified
parameters. 2. Same as controller (4).
convection The transmission of energy or matter through a
medium, which is itself moved. For instance, in convection
cooling, the air transferring the heat moves along with the
heat. This contrasts with conduction, where the medium
itself is not moved as a whole, and with radiation, where
waves or particles are emitted.
convection cooling A process by which an object transfers
heat to the surrounding air. The heated air is less dense,
hence moving upward so that cooler air is then available for
further cooling. Used, for instance, to cool components
which generate heat, such as transistors.
convection current
convection current 1. A current of air which provides con-
vection cooling. 2. The rate at which charges in an electron
stream are transported across a given surface. Also called
convective current.
convective current Same as convection current.
convective discharge An electric discharge in which a stream
of charged particles moves away from a body with a high
voltage, such as a Van de Graaff generator. Such a dis-
charge may be visible or invisible. Also ca1Jed electric
wind.
convenience outlet A power line termination whose socket
serves to supply electric power to devices or equipment
whose plug is inserted into it. Convenience outlets are usu-
ally mounted in a wall, although they may be found else-
where, such as a floor, or in the back of another electrical
device, such as an amplifier. Also called by various other
names, including convenience receptacle, outlet, electric
outlet, receptacle, power outlet, and power receptacle.
convenience receptacle Same as convenience outlet.
conventional current The view of current in an electric cir-
cuit as a flow of positive charges. This is the opposite direc-
tion of electron flow, which is how current actually flows in
a circuit.
convergence 1. To tend towards an intersecting point. For
example, where technologies such as computers and com-
munications meet. 2. In a multibeam electron tube, such as
a TV picture tube with a three-color gun, the intersection of
all the electron beams at given point.
convergence coil One of the coils used to help ensure the
correct convergence of the electron beams in a TV picture
tube with a three-color gun.
convergence control In a three-gun TV picture tube, a control
that varies the potential of the convergence electrode. This
control, utilizing a variable resistor, adjusts the convergence.
convergence electrode In a multibeam electron tube, such as
a TV picture tube with a three-color gun, an electrode whose
electric field converges alI the electron beams.
convergence magnet One or more magnets utilized to con-
verge two or more electron beams. Used, for instance, in
three-gun TV picture tubes. Also called beam magnet.
convergence surface In a multi beam electron tube, such as a
TV picture tube with a three-color gun, the surface gener-
ated by the intersection point of two or more electron beams.
convergent beam A stream of radiated energy which tends
towards an intersection point. Also called converging
beam.
convergent lens Same as converging lens.
converging beam Same as convergent beam.
converging lens A lens which causes parallel rays of light
passing through it to bend toward one another. Such lenses
are thicker at the center than the edges. This contrasts with
a diverging lens, which bends parallel rays of light passing
through it away from one another. Also called convergent
lens, convex lens, or positive lens.
conversational Same as conversational mode.
conversational language A computer language which can be
used in conversational mode.
conversational mode In computers, a mode of operation in
which there is a series of exchanges between a user and a
computer, consisting of user commands and computer ac-
tions. Also called conversational.
conversion 1. The process of changing something from one
use, form, state, or function, to another. For instance, the
changing of electrical energy into sound energy. 2. The
process of changing DC into AC, or AC into DC. 3. The
process of changing the frequency of a signal. 4. The proc-
ess of changing computer input, data, files, media, pro-
146 convex lens
grams, hardware, or systems, from one form to another. For
example, the conversion of a file from one format to an-
other.
conversion efficiency The efficiency with which a converter
performs its function, usually expressed as a ratio of an out-
put magnitude to an input magnitude. For example, the ratio
of the electrical energy produced by a photovoltaic cell, to
the incident solar energy.
conversion equipment Equipment which converts computer
data or files from one medium to another. For example,
from a hard disk to a tape drive.
conversion gain ratio For a frequency changer or mixer, the
ratio of the output signal power to the input signal power.
conversion program A computer program which makes the
appropriate changes to data, files, or programs, so that they
may be used with a different computer, software, or network
architecture.
conversion rate In analog-to-digital conversions, the fre-
quency with which samples of a variable are taken. For in-
stance, that used in the conversion of analog music into digi-
tal form. Usually expressed as samples or cycles per unit
time, as in a 192 kHz sampling rate. Sampling must be
made at or above the Nyquist rate to prevent aliasing, and
for any given sample size, the higher the sampling rate the
more accurate the conversion. Also called sampling rate.
conversion transducer A transducer whose output frequency
is equal to the sum or difference of the input frequency and
the local oscillator frequency. Also called converter (4), or
heterodyne conversion transducer.
convert 1. To change something from one use, form, state, or
function to another. For instance, to change electrical en-
ergy into sound energy. For instance, to change electrical
energy into sound energy 2. To change DC into AC, or AC
into DC. 3. To change the frequency of a signal. 4. To
change computer input, data, files, media, programs, hard-
ware, or systems, from one form to another. For example, to
convert a file from one format to another.
converter Also spelled convertor. 1. That which changes
something from one use, form, state, or function to another.
For instance, a transducer which converts electrical energy
into sound energy. 2. A device which converts DC into AC,
or AC into DC. For example, a chopper. 3. A device which
changes the frequency of a signal. For instance, a frequency
changer. 4. Same as conversion transducer. S. A device
which changes computer input, data, files, media, programs,
hardware, or systems, from one form to another. For exam-
ple, an analog-to-digital converter, or a binary decoder. 6. A
device, that connects to a TV, which decodes the incoming
signal or otherwise enables viewing of certain channels or
programming. Such a device is usually in the form of a box,
and may also connect to another device, such as a VCR.
Also called cable box (1). 7. A device, usually in the form
of a box, which serves to tune a TV to all available channels.
Also caned cable box (2).
converter amplifier Same as chopper amplifier.
converter box Same as cable box.
converter tube In a conversion transducer, an electron tube
which combines the functions of a mixer and a local oscilla-
tor.
convertor Same as converter.
convex Having a surface, side, or boundary that curves out-
ward, such as the outer surface of a sphere. This contrasts
with concave, which has a surface or boundary that curves
inward.
convex lens A lens which is thicker at the center than the
edges. Such a lens causes parallel rays of light passing
through it to bend toward one another. This contrasts with
concave lens, which is thinner at the center than the edges.
convexo-concave 147
Also called convergent lens, converging lens, or positive
lens.
convexo-concave 1. Same as concavo-convex (1). 2. Having
a curvature greater on the convex side than on the concave
side.
convexo-concave lens 1. Same as concave-convex lens (1).
2. A lens with one convex surface and one concave surface,
and whose convex surface has a greater curvature.
conveyor A system or apparatus which is utilized to transport
articles through a facility. Such articles are moved along
their path with a continuous motion.
cookie A block of data prepared by a Web server which is
sent to a Web browser for storage, and which remains ready
to be sent back when needed. A user initially provides key
information, such as that required for an online purchase,
and this is stored in a cookie file. When a user returns to the
Web site of this online retailer, the cookie is sent back to the
server, enabling the display of Web pages that are custom-
ized to include information such as the mailing address,
viewing preferences, or the content of a recent order. Also
called browser cookie, Web cookie, or Internet cookie.
cookie file A file containing one or more cookies.
coolant A fluid, such as air, water, or oil, which serves to
remove heat from a device, component, piece of equipment,
machine, or system.
Coolidge tube A high-vacuum X-ray tube in which electrons
are produced by a heated cathode. Also called Coolidge X-
ray tube.
Coolidge X-ray tube Same as Coolidge tube.
cooling fin A projecting plate or vane utilized for cooling a
component, device, or piece of equipment. It provides an
additional surface area for the dissipation of heat. Also
called fin.
Cooper pair Within the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer theory, a
pairing of electrons in a superconductor, due to electron-
phonon interactions. It is proposed that such pairing enables
electrons to move through a lattice without colliding with it
in a disruptive manner.
cooperative multitasking A mode of multitasking in which
the foreground task allows background tasks access to the
CPU at given times, such as when it is idle. Since the pro-
gram in the foreground controls access to the CPU, it may
monopolize its resources. This contrasts with preemptive
multitasking, in which all tasks take turns at having the at-
tention of the CPU. Also called non-preemptive multi-
tasking.
cooperative processing The use of two or more computers to
work on the same task. May be used, for instance, to best
allocate the available resources.
coordinate axis Each of the lines which intersect at a com-
mon point called the origin, and which are used within a co-
ordinate system. When representing three planes, for in-
stance, each axis may be designated by the Jetters x, y, and
z; respectively.
coordinate system A system, such as the Cartesian coordinate
system, for representing points in space, whose locations are
described by sets of numbers called coordinates.
Coordinated Universal Time An internationally agreed time
standard based on time kept by atomic clocks, and which
represents the local time at the 0 0 meridian, which passes
through Greenwich, England. When utilizing Coordinated
Universal Time, each location on the planet has the same
time, which is expressed utilizing a 24 hour clock, with a Z
frequently appended. For example, 2100Z indicates 9 PM.
Since the earth's rotation is gradually slowing, an extra sec-
ond is added approximately once a year. It is based on In-
ternational Atomic Time, and its abbreviation is UTe. Also
called Universal Time Coordinated, Universal Coordi-
copper doping
nated Time, Universal Time, World Time, Zulu Time, or
Ztime.
coordinates Each of the sets of numbers which locate a point
in space within a coordinate system. If there are three
planes, for instance, then a point is located by specifying its
position in reference to each of the three coordinate axes.
coplanar Lying, occurring, or placed in the same plane. For
instance, an antenna array arranged in this manner.
coplanar waveguide A planar microwave transmission line
consisting of a central signal line situated between two
ground planes, and which is separated from them by a speci-
fied gap. The central line and ground planes are affixed to
the surface of a dielectric substrate of a given thickness. Its
abbreviation is CPW.
copper A reddish metallic element whose atomic number is
29. It is lustrous, malleable, diamagnetic, ductile, and an
exceJlent conductor of heat. Among the elements, only sil-
ver surpasses it as a conductor of electricity. It has a very
high melting point, is not too chemically reactive, and has
about 25 known isotopes, of which 2 are stable. Its applica-
tions in electronics are many, and include its use in electric
wiring, electroplating, and in many useful alloys such as
brass. Its chemical symbol is Cu.
copper brazing Brazing utilizing an alloy of copper as the
filler metal.
copper-brazing alloy An alloy of copper used for brazing.
copper bromide A black powder, or crystals, whose chemical
formula is CuBrz. Used as a battery electrolyte. Also called
cupric bromide.
copper chip A microchip that uses copper, instead of alumi-
num, for connections. The superior conductive qualities of
copper improve the performance of the processor.
copper chloride A yellow to brown powder whose chemical
formula is CuC(z. Used in electroplating. Also called cu-
pric chloride.
copper-clad A metal which is bonded with, or surrounded by,
copper. For example, an aluminum wire surrounded by a
copper layer which is bonded to it.
copper-clad aluminum Aluminum which is bonded with, or
surrounded by, copper. The aluminum may be in rods,
sheets, wire, and so on, depending on the use it will be
given.
copper-clad steel Steel which is bonded with, or surrounded
by, copper. The steel may be in rods, sheets, wire, and so
on, depending on the use it will be given.
copper-clad wire Wire which is surrounded by a layer of
copper. The core of such a wire may be made of steel, alu-
minum, or another metal.
copper coil A coil, such as that used in a transformer, wound
with copper wire.
copper conductor 1. A conductor of electricity composed of,
or containing copper. For example, copper wire, or copper-
clad wire. 2. A conductor of electricity, heat, or another
form of energy, which is composed of, or incorporates cop-
per.
copper cyanide A green powder whose chemical formula is
CU(CN)2' Used in electroplating. Also called cupric cya-
nide.
Copper Distributed Data Interface A version of Fiber Dis-
tributed Data Interface which utilizes copper cabling instead
of fiber-optic cabling. Its abbreviation is COOl.
copper-doped A semiconductor material, such as germanium.
which is doped with copper, to vary its conductive proper-
ties.
copper doping The use of copper for doping a semiconductor
material such as silicon, to vary its conductive properties.
copper ferrocyanide
copper ferrocyanide A reddish-brown powder used for low-
ering the electrical resistance of soil. Also called cupric
ferrocyanide.
copper fluoride Blue crystals used in ceramics.
copper glycinate Blue crystals used in photometry and in
electroplating baths.
copper hydroxide A blue powder whose chemical formula is
CU(OH)2' Used in battery electrodes. Also called cupric
hydroxide.
copper loss Same as copper losses.
copper losses A power loss in copper wires, cables, or wind-
ings, due to the resistance of copper conductors. Also
known as copper loss, or [1 R losses.
copper monoxide Same as cupric oxide.
copper nitrate Blue crystals used in electroplating baths.
Also called cupric nitrate.
copper oxide black Same as cupric oxide.
copper oxide red Same as cuprous oxide.
copper plating The electrolytic deposition of copper onto a
substrate. This may be done, for instance, to provide greater
electrical conductivity, or resistance to corrosion.
copper selenide Blue-black to green-black crystals whose
chemical formula is CuSe. Used in semiconductors and so-
lar cells. Also called cupric selenide.
copper suboxide Same as cuprous oxide.
copper sulfate A chemical compound whose formula is
CUS04. Used in batteries and electroplating, and as a desic-
cant. Also called cupric sulfate.
copper tungstate A light green powder whose chemical for-
mula is CuW04 Used in semiconductors. Also called cu-
pi ic tungstate.
copper winding A winding, such as that used in a trans-
former, wound with copper wire.
copper wire A wire consisting of copper. It is usually utilized
to conduct electricity, or for wired communications. Copper
wire may be rolled, extruded, or drawn, has a uniform cross
section, and is available in many diameters.
coprocessor Also spelled co-processor. In a computer, a
secondary CPU which performs specialized functions that
assist the main CPU. For instance, even though a CPU can
perform floating-point calculations, a math coprocessor can
do so better, and at the same time free the main CPU to ad-
dress other tasks. Another type of coprocessor is a graphics
coprocessor. A CPU may have a coprocessor built into it.
copy 1. A duplicate of an original. For instance, information,
such as text or graphics, may be copied from one document
to another, to the computer's memory, or to a printer. Simi-
larly, files or directories may be copied from one medium to
another, one computer to another, and so on. Copies of digi-
tized information are usually 100% accurate, or very nearly
so. 2. To read data from a source, leaving it unchanged, and
writing it to another location, so that there is an additional
identical version of the original.
copy and paste In computers, to copy something from one
location, and then place it in another. For instance, to dupli-
cate content such as text and/or images in one document and
place it elsewhere in the same document, or in another. An-
other example is to copy several files from one directory and
placing duplicates in another. Its abbreviation is copy &
paste.
copy protection Measures taken to help avoid the unauthor-
ized copying of software. These include the requirement to
enter a registration number when installing a program, or the
use of a dongle. Also called software protection.
copy & paste Abbreviation of copy and paste.
CORBA Acronym for Common Object Request Broker Ar-
chitecture. Within an object-oriented environment, an archi-
148 core dump
tecture which enables objects, or pieces of programs, to
communicate with other objects, regardless of the program-
ming language used, or the platform they are run on. Also
called CORDA architecture.
CORBA architecture Same as CORDA.
Corbino disk A variable-resistance device consisting of a
semiconductor disk exhibiting the Corbino effect. The in-
tensity of the magnetic field varies the flow of charge carri-
ers.
Corblno effect The generation of an electric current around
the circumference of a metallic disk carrying- a radial cur-
rent, when this disk is placed perpendicularly in a magnetic
field.
cord A flexible cable, containing one or more insulated con-
ductors, which is generally equipped with connecting termi-
nals such as plugs. For instance, that used with a telephone,
mouse, or headphones.
cordless A device, component, or piece of equipment which
does not have a cord, especially when there might ordinarily
be one. For instance, a cordless telephone, a cordless
mouse, or a cordless drill. When referring to the transmis-
sion of information, such as voice, data, or control signals,
also known as wireless.
cordless device A device which is cordless.
cordless headphones Headphones which do not have a cord.
Such headphones receive signals from its base unit which is
plugged into an audio amplifier, or similar device. Also
caned wireless headphones.
cordless keyboard A computer keyboard which does not
have a cord. Such a keyboard may use infrared or radio-
frequency waves to communicate with the computer. Also
called wireless keyboard.
cordless microphone A microphone which does not have a
cord. It has its own power source, and transmits via infrared
or radio-frequency signals. Also called wireless micro-
phone.
cordless mouse A computer mouse which does not have a
cord. Such a mouse may use infrared or radio-frequency
waves to communicate with the computer. Also called
wireless mouse.
cordless phone Same as cordless telephone.
cordless switchboard A telephone switchboard in which
manually operated keys, as opposed to cords, are used to es-
tablish connections.
cordless telephone A telephone which does not have a cord
between the base unit and the handset, and which communi-
cates via low-powered radio-frequency signals. In this con-
text, the main difference between a cordless telephone and a
cellular telephone is that the base unit of the former plugs
directly into a land telephone network, while the latter is
linked to it via microwaves. Its abbreviation is cordless
phone. Also called wireless phone.
core 1. The central part of something. 2. A form around
which a coil or winding is wound. For example, a ferro-
magnetic core. 3. A magnetic material, such as iron, around
which a magnetic coil is wound. Such a core may be used in
a device such as an electromagnet or transformer, and in-
creases the inductance of the coil. Also called magnetic
core (1). 4. Same as core memory (1). S. The center con-
ductor of a coaxial cable, or the bundled optical fibers en-
cased by a protective sheath in a fiber-optic cable. Also
called tiber core, or optical fiber core.
core dump To display, print, copy, or transfer the content of
the main memory of a computer. Such a dump may be per-
formed after a process which ends abnormally, for instance,
to help pinpoint the source of a problem. A core dump may
also be generated automatically. Also called memory
dump, dump (2), or storage dump (2).
core frequency 149
core frequency Same as core speed.
core iron A special iron used for cores (2) or cores (3).
core loss The energy dissipated by a ferromagnetic core, such
as that found in a transformer or inductor. May be due, for
instance, to eddy currents and hysteresis loss. Also caJled
iron loss.
core memory Also called core storage. 1. A magnetic mate-
rial, such as iron oxide, used as a bistable element, multiple
units of which are configured in an array which may store
data. It is a seldom-used form of non-volatile computer
memory. Also called core (4), magnetic core memory, or
magnetic core (2). 2. An obsolescent term for the RAM, or
main memory, ofa computer.
core speed The clock rate of a CPU. Also called core fre-
quency, CPU core speed, CPU core frequency, or proces-
sor core speed.
core storage Same as core memory.
core transformer A transformer with a ferromagnetic core,
such as ferrite, as opposed to a nonmagnetic core.
CorelDRA W A popular drawing, image editing, and presen-
tation program.
coresident A program which, once .loaded, is present in mem-
ory at all times, along with one or more other programs
which are also present in memory. A notepad is an example
of such a program. Also spelled co-resident.
corner 1. The point at which lines, edges, sides, or surfaces
meet to form an angle, and the area immediately surround-
ing this vertex. 2. An abrupt change in the longitudinal axis
of a waveguide. When such a change is 90, it is called an
elbow bend.
corner effect For a device, such as a bandstop filter, with one
or more sharp bends in a response curve, a rounding in the
curve at these points. Ideally, the cutoff frequency should
have a rectangular shape at this point in such a curve.
corner reflector 1. A surface consisting of two or three flat
reflecting surfaces which form a comer. This serves to bet-
ter reflect electromagnetic waves back to their origin. A
corner reflector, for instance, enhances the return of a radar
signal back to a transmitter. 2. An antenna incorporating
one or more corner reflectors (1). Also called corner-
reflector antenna.
corner-reflector antenna Same as corner reflector (2).
corona Same as corona discharge.
corona discharge An intermittent, luminous, and often audi-
ble electrical discharge that originates from a conductor
when its potential exceeds a given value, but is not high
enough to form a spark. This occurs especially in pointed
objects when the electric field near their surfaces surpasses a
given amount. For example, an aircraft traveling through an
electrical storm may develop such discharges from an an-
tenna, which in turn produces precipitation static. Also
called corona effect, corona, corposant, brush discharge,
or St. Elmo's fire.
corona effect Same as corona discharge.
corona failure A failure, due to corona discharge, in high-
voltage conductors such as terminals. It is usually caused by
the degradation of the affected body.
corona loss Energy loss due to corona discharge.
corona resistance The ability of an insulating material to
withstand given levels of field-intensified ionization without
breakdown occurring.
corona shield A shield placed near a high-potential point, to
prevent corona discharge. It does so by redistributing the
electrostatic lines of force.
corona start voltage Same as corona starting voltage.
corrosion-resistant
corona starting voltage The voltage difference necessary for
corona discharge to occur. Also called corona start volt-
age.
corona voltmeter A voltmeter in which the peak voltage is
measured and indicated when corona discharge initiates at a
known electrode spacing.
corona wire In a laser printer, a wire through which a high
voltage is passed to charge the sheet to be printed, so that
the oppositely charged toner will be pulled off the drum and
onto it.
coroutine A routine, which once loaded, is present in memory
at all times. Such a routine may be executed with other rou-
tines which are also present in memory at all times. Also
spelled co-routine.
Corporation for Research and Educational Networking
Same as CREN.
corposant Same as corona discharge.
correction An amount that is factored into a calculation or
measurement in order to obtain a more accurate result, or the
true value. May be used, for example, to compensate for the
readings of an instrument.
correction factor A numerical factor used for correction.
Such a factor, for instance, may be added, subtracted, or
multiplied.
corrective action 1. An action meant to rectify an undesired
condition. 2. In a control system, an action taken to main-
tain the desired output.
corrective maintenance 1. Maintenance performed to rectify
an undesired condition. For instance, that carried out after a
failure. Also called remedial maintenance. 2. Mainte-
nance performed avoid an undesired condition.
corrective network An electric network inserted into a circuit
to enhance certain characteristics, such as its impedance
properties. Also called shaping network.
correlation A relationship in the change of two variables.
The relationship may be causal, parallel, reciprocal, and so
on. For example, a comparison of the magnitudes of two
signals which vary over time.
correlation detection A method of detection in which a sig-
nal is compared with a reference signal which is usually in-
ternally generated. Also called cross-correlation detection.
correlation detector A device which compares a measured
signal with a reference signal, such as a standard.
correlation distance In the propagation of waves by means of
tropospheric scatter, the minimum distance between anten-
nas that will give rise to independent fading of the signals
received by each antenna.
correlation tracking Tracking using a correlation tracking
system.
correlation tracking system A tracking system in which
multiple signals obtained from a scanned object are com-
pared. The comparison of the signals provides the phase
difference between them, which in turn determines the tra-
jectory of the object.
corrosion The gradual disintegration of a metal or alloy as a
consequence of chemical reactions with its surrounding en-
vironment, such as the oxidation of iron due to the moisture
present in air. Corrosion is accelerated by the presence of
acids and/or bases.
corrosion protection Measures, such as the application of
protective coatings, taken to minimize or inhibit corrosion.
corrosion-resistant Metals or alloys, such as copper or
stainless steel, which are comparatively unaffected by corro-
sion. A material which is susceptible to corrosion may be
covered, for example, with a protective paint, so as to make
it corrosion-resistant.
corrosive 150
corrosive 1. Having the capability to cause corrosion.
2. Causing corrosion.
corrupted Computer programs or data which have been dam-
aged. For example, a corrupted file.
corrupted data Data, such as that within a corrupted file,
which has been damaged.
corrupted file A file that has been damaged by a hardware
malfunction, a software failure, a virus, or another cause.
Such files are generally unreadable, and data recovery tech-
niques must be employed if the contained information is to
be retrieved.
corruption The damaging of computer programs or data.
Causes include hardware malfunctions, software failures,
power outages, and viruses.
corundum A crystalline form of aluminum oxide, whose
chemical formula is AhOJ. Its applications in electronics
include its use as an insulator and as an abrasive.
COS Abbreviation of class of service.
cosine For a right triangle, the ratio of the length of the side
adjacent to an acute angle, to the length of the hypotenuse.
This contrasts with sine, which is the ratio of the length of
the side opposite to an acute angle, to the length of the hy-
potenuse.
cosine emission law A law which states that the energy emit-
ted in any direction by a radiating surface is proportional to
the cosine of the angle formed between the direction of
emission and a perpendicular line extending from the same
surface. Also called cosine law, or Lambert's cosine law.
cosine law Same as cosine emission law.
cosmic background radiation Same as cosmic microwave
background. Its abbreviation is CDR.
cosmic microwave background A uniform bath of radiation
which is believed to permeate all of space and to have origi-
nated with the big bang. The spectrum of this radiation cor-
responds to that of a blackbody at about 2.73 K, peaking in
the microwave region. It is a source of cosmic noise. Its
abbreviation is CMB. Also called cosmic microwave ra-
diation, cosmic background radiation, cosmic microwave
background radiation, or microwave background.
cosmic microwave background radiation Same as cosmic
microwave background. Its abbreviation is CMBR.
cosmic microwave radiation Same as cosmic microwave
background. Its abbreviation is CMR.
cosmic noise Also ca11ed cosmic radio noise, Jansky noise,
or sky noise. 1. Radio-frequency noise caused by sources
outside the earth's atmosphere, such as the cosmic micro-
wave background. 2. Radio-frequency noise that originates
outside the earth's atmosphere.
cosmic radiation Same as cosmic rays.
cosmic radio noise Same as cosmic noise.
cosmic radio waves Radio-frequency waves originating from
sources outside the earth's atmosphere, such as the cosmic
microwave background.
cosmic rays High energy particles which travel through space
at nearly the speed of light, and which consist mostly of pro-
tons and alpha particles. Cosmic rays have many sources,
including solar flares, and impinge upon the earth from
every direction. Also called cosmic radiation, or primary
cosmic rays.
Cotton-Moulton effect The ability of some pure liquids,
under the influence of a magnetic field, to doubly refract
light. For this phenomenon to occur, the magnetic field
must be transverse to the light beam.
Cottrell precipitator A device which uses the Cottrell proc-
ess to precipitate dust.
Cottrell process The removal of dusts present in gases
through their exposure to charged wires or grids. The gas is
counter tube
forced to flow through a chamber containing wires or grids
that are maintained at a high voltage, which ionizes the dust
particles and makes them migrate to the chamber walls.
coul Abbreviation of coulomb.
coulomb The Sf unit of electric charge. One coulomb is the
charge that passes through a given cross section of a conduc-
tor with a constant current flow of one ampere, for an inter-
val of one second. It is equal to the charge contained in ap-
proximately 6.2415 x 1018 electrons. Its abbreviation is
coul, and its symbol is C.
Coulomb attraction The electrostatic force of attraction
between two oppositely charged particles, according to Cou-
lomb's law. Also called electrostatic attraction.
Coulomb force The electrostatic attractive or repulsive force
between two charged particles according to Coulomb's law.
Also called electrostatic force.
Coulomb interactions The interactions between charged
particles according to Coulomb's law. Also called electro-
static interactions.
coulomb meter Same as coulometer.
Coulomb repulsion The electrostatic force of repulsion be-
tween two like charged particles, according to Coulomb's
law. Also called electrostatic repulsion.
Coulomb's law A law which states that the force between two
charged particles is directly proportional to the product of
their magnitudes, and inversely proportional to the square of
their distance. This force occurs along a straight line be-
tween the charges, and is a repulsive force if the charges are
like, or an attractive force if they are opposite. Also called
law of electrostatic attraction.
coulombmeter Same as coulometer.
coulometer An instrument which measures electric charge,
and expresses it in coulombs. It may consist, for instance, of
an electrolytic cell in which the mass of a given substance
liberated from a solution is correlated to coulombs of flow-
ing current. Also called coulomb meter, coulombmeter, or
voltameter.
count 1. A number reached by counting events, such as
pulses. 2. The action of counting events, such as pulses. 3. A
single event registered by a radiation counter. 4. A single
event, especially when registered by a counter.
counter 1. A circuit, device, register, mechanism, or system
used for counting. For example, a counter may store and/or
indicate a given total, such as a number of pulses, Web-site
hits, changes in state, and so on. 2. A circuit which gener-
ates an output after counting a specified number of pulses.
Also caIJed counter circuit, or counting circuit. 3. An in-
strument which registers and counts ionizing radiation, such
as alpha rays, given off by radioactive entities. For exam-
ple, a Geiger counter or a scintillation counter. Also called
radiation counter, ionization counter, or particle counter
(1). 4. In computer programming, a variable that keeps
track of a running count.
counter circuit Same as counter (2).
counter electromotive force Same as counter emf.
counter emf Abbreviation of counter electromotive force.
The voltage developed in an inductive circuit through which
AC flows. The polarity of this voltage is at all times the op-
posite of that of the applied voltage. Also known as back
electromotive force, back emf, back voltage, or reverse
voltage (1).
counter-rotating The arrangement in which two signal paths,
one in each direction, exist in a ring topology.
counter tube 1. An electron tube which produces an output
pulse after counting a specified number of pulses. Also
called counting tube (1). When one output occurs for every
ten input pulses it is called decade counter tube (1). 2. An
electron tube with one input electrode and multiple output
counterclockwise 151
electrodes, and in which with each successive input pulse
the conduction is transferred in sequence to the next output
electrode. Also calJed counting tube (2). When there are
ten output electrodes it is caJled decade counter tube (2).
3. An electron tube which registers ionizing radiation, such
as alpha rays, and produces an output electric pulse which
can be counted. For example, a Geiger-MUlier tube. Also
called radiation counter tube.
counterclockwise In the opposite direction as the moving
hands of a clock when viewed from the front. Its abbrevia-
tion is ccw.
counterclockwise-polarized wave An elliptically polarized
transverse electromagnetic wave in which the rotation of the
electric field vector is towards the left when viewed along
the direction of propagation. Also called left-hand polar-
ized wave.
counterelectromotive force Same as counter emf.
counterpoise One or more wires mounted close to the ground,
but insulated from it, to form a low-impedance and high-
capacitance path to said ground. This provides a radio-
frequency ground for an antenna. Also called antenna
counterpoise.
counting circuit Same as counter (2).
counting tube 1. Same as counter tube (1). 2. Same as
counter tube (2).
country code 1. A code used for dialing a country other than
that within which a telephone call is originated. Such a code
is usually followed by a city code, and then the specific tele-
phone number. Some regions require dialing the country
code even when the call is originated in the same country.
2. Over the Internet, a two-character abbreviation which
identifies a country. It appears at the end of a Uniform Re-
source Locator, or address, as in: xxxx@zzz.com.qq, where
the country code is qq. A given country code in an address
does not necessarily mean that the host to that address is
physically there. Also called Internet country code.
country-specific Pertaining to hardware or software that
utilize conventions that incorporate the specific needs of a
given country. For instance, a keyboard that has special
characters.
couple 1. To join, link, or allow the transfer of energy. For
instance, to join circuits. 2. That which has been joined,
linked, or connected in a manner which allows the transfer
of energy. For example, coupled circuits. 3. To place two
dissimilar metals in contact with each other. 4. Two dis-
similar metals which have been placed in contact with each
other. For instance, a thermocouple,
coupled antennas Two or more antennas which are electro-
magnetically coupled to each other.
coupled circuits Two or more electric circuits which are
coupled. Such coupling may be capacitive, inductive, con-
ductive, and so on.
coupled oscillators Two or more oscillator circuits which are
coupled. Such coupling may be, for instance, capacitive or
inductive.
coupler 1. A device or means which serves to join, link, or
allow the transfer of energy. 2. A device or means which
allows coupling between circuits. Such coupling may be
capacitive, inductive, conductive, and so on. 3. A device or
means which allows energy to be transferred between
waveguides.
coupling 1. Interaction resulting from joining, linking, or the
transferring of energy. 2. Interaction between circuits in
which energy is transferred. The resulting coupling may be
capacitive, inductive, conductive, optical, and so on. 3. A
device which serves to join, link, or allow the transfer of en-
ergy. For example, a waveguide coupling.
cps
coupling aperture An opening which allows the transfer of
energy into or out of a waveguide or cavity resonator. Also
called coupling hole, or coupling slot.
coupling capacitor A capacitor which blocks DC and low-
frequency AC, while allowing higher-frequency AC to pass
freely. Also called blocking capacitor, or isolation capaci-
tor.
coupling coefficient Also known as coupling constant, cou-
pling factor, coupling ratio, or coefficient of coupling. 1. A
measure of the strength of interaction between two systems,
such as particles. 2. A numerical value which expresses the
degree of coupling between two systems, especially circuits.
This value is always greater than 0 and less than 1, or 0%
and )00% respectively. A coefficient of coupling of 0
would represent no coupling, and 1 would be perfect cou-
pling.
coupling constant Same as coupling coefficient.
coupling factor Same as coupling coefficient.
coupling hole Same as coupling aperture.
coupling loop A smaJI loop of wire inserted into a waveguide
or cavity resonator, which allows energy to be transferred in
or out. Also called loop (5).
coupling loss Loss occurring during capacitive, inductive,
conductive, or optical coupling. Also called coupling
losses.
coupling losses Same as coupling loss.
coupling network An electric network which allows energy
to be transferred between circuits.
coupling probe A probe which is inserted into a waveguide or
cavity resonator, which allows energy to be transferred in or
out. Such a probe is usually a pin or a wire.
coupling ratio Same as coupling coefficient.
coupling slot Same as coupling aperture.
courseware Software supplementing, or comprising, any
given material being learned. Used, for instance, in com-
puter-aided instruction. Also called educational software.
courtesy copy Same as carbon copy.
covalent bond A chemical bond in which two atoms within a
molecule share one or more pairs of electrons. Such a bond
may be between atoms of the same element, as in O 2 (mo-
lecular oxygen), or between different elements, as in GaAs
(gallium arsenide). Also called electron-pair bond.
coverage 1. The geographical area within which a given
transmitter provides effective service. For instance, the zone
served by a cellular telephone system, the region within
which reception of TV or radio broadcasts is adequate, or
the zone a radar can effectively scan. Also called coverage
area, or service area. 2. The service provided within a cov-
erage area.
coverage area Same as coverage (1).
cp Symbol for candlepower.
cP Symbol for centipoise.
CPA Abbreviation of Chirped Pulse Amplification.
CPA laser Abbreviation of Chirped Pulse Amplification
laser.
CPE 1. Abbreviation of customer premises equipment.
2. Abbreviation of computer performance evaluation.
CPGA Abbreviation of ceramic pin grid array.
cpi Abbreviation of characters per inch.
CPI Abbreviation of characters per inch.
CPM Abbreviation of critical path method.
cpm Abbreviation of cycles per minute.
cps 1. Abbreviation of characters per second. 2. Abbrevia-
tion of cycles per second.
CPU
CPU Abbreviation of central-processing unit. 1. The portion
of a computer which has the necessary circuits to interpret
and execute instructions, and to control all other parts of the
computer. The CPU consists of the control unit and the
arithmetic-logic unit, both usually contained on a single
chip, in which case it is also called microprocessor. Also
called chip (4), processor (1), or central processor (1).
2. That contained in a CPU (1), plus memory, buffers, and
related components. Also called processor (2), or central
processor (2). 3. The enclosure which houses all the com-
ponents a computer utilizes, with the exception of the exter-
nal peripherals, such as monitor, mouse, keyboard, printer,
and so on. Also called system unit.
CPU-bound Abbreviation of central-processing unit bound.
A circumstance in which a CPU is overloaded with calcula-
tions, which impairs its ability to process. May occur, for
example, while recalculating a spreadsheet. Also caned
compute-bound, computation-bound, or process-bound.
CPU cache Abbreviation of central-processing unit cache.
Same as cache (1).
CPU chip Abbreviation of central-processing unit chip. A
CPU (1) contained on a single chip. It incorporates the con-
trol unit and the arithmetic-logic unit. In order to have the
minimum necessary components for computer function,
memory and a power supply must be added. Also caJled
microprocessor.
CPU cooler Abbreviation of central-processing unit cooler.
A device which helps maintain a CPU running at a cooler
temperature, which increases performance and reliability.
Examples of such devices include heat sinks, fans, or refrig-
eration systems. Also called chip cooler.
CPU core frequency Same as core speed.
CPU core speed Same as core speed.
CPU cycle Abbreviation of central-processing unit cycle.
Same as clock cycle.
CPU speed Abbreviation of central-processing unit speed. A
measure of the relative processing power of a computer. A
4 GHz computer, for example, processes data twice as fast
as a 2 GHz computer. Other factors, such as cache also in-
fluence the overall speed of a computer. Usually expressed
in multiples of hertz, such as megahertz or gigahertz. Also
called chip speed.
CPU time Abbreviation of central-processing unit time. t. The
time a CPU is controlled by process, program, device, or the
like. 2. The time occupied by a CPU to perform a given
task.
CPW Abbreviation of coplanar waveguide.
CQFP Abbreviation of ceramic quad flat-pack.
Cr t. Chemical symbol for chromium. 2. Within the YCbCr
color model, one of the two color-difference signals. The
other is Cb (2).
crack To break into a computer system by circumventing or
otherwise defeating the protective measures of said system.
For example, to guess or otherwise acquire a password to
gain access.
cracker A person who breaks into a computer system by
circumventing or otherwise defeating the protective meas-
ures of said system. Such a person may seek to use re-
sources without paying, to do harm such as destroying files
or stealing credit card numbers, or simply to break in and
then leave.
cradle I, A base unit that a PDA plugs into, so that the user
can recharge the batteries and/or communicate with another
computer. 2. A base unit that a cordless telephone or similar
device plugs into for recharging.
cramming The unethical practice of changing or adding fea-
tures or services provided to a telephone customer which has
not requested them. Unlike slamming, cramming is per-
IS2 crippled version
formed by the telephone company a customer selected, and
may involve billing for voice mail, calling cards, caller-10,
and so on, which have not been ordered.
crash 1. A complete and unexpected program or system halt.
Caused by a program deficiency or a hardware failure. Also
called abnormal termination, abnormal end, or bomb. 2. A
hard disk failure in which the read/write head collides with
the surface of a disk. This may be caused by a foreign ob-
ject such as dust, or a misalignment. Data is destroyed, and
generally both the read/write head and the platter must be
replaced. Also called head crash.
crash recovery The ability of a computer system to resume
operation following a crash (1). This may be accomplished
automaticalJy, although there may be partial or extensive
data loss.
crawler A program which searches Web sites and organizes
the located information. Also called Web crawler, spider
(1), or bot (2).
crazing A pattern of fine cracks that forms on the surface or
within materials such as ceramics and plastics. May be pro-
duced, for instance, by mechanical stresses such as repeated
heating and cooling. Also, the process via which said cracks
are formed.
CRC Abbreviation of cyclic redundancy check, or cyclical
redundancy check.
creep A slow change in a property or value. For example, the
deformation of a material under stress or through the pas-
sage of time.
creepage Electrical conduction along the surface of a dielec-
tric material.
creeping featurism The addition of features to an existing
software product, just for the effect of having more features.
This usually leads to an unnecessary toll on system re-
sources, such as RAM and disk space. Also called feature
creep.
CREN Abbreviation of Corporation for Research and Educa-
tional Networking. An organization that runs an academic
and research computer network that merged BITNET and
CSNET.
crest Also called crest value, peak, or peak value. I, The
maximum instantaneous value of a voltage, current, signal,
or other quantity. 2. The maximum instantaneous absolute
value of the displacement from a reference position, such as
zero, for a voltage, current, signal, or other quantity. When
referring to a wave or other periodic phenomenon, also
called amplitude. 2. The crest (1), or crest (2) for a given
time interval.
crest factor In a periodically-varying function, such as that of
AC, the ratio of the peak amplitude to the RMS amplitude.
Also known as amplitude factor or peak factor.
crest value Same as crest.
crest voltage The maximum absolute value of the displace-
ment from a reference position, such as zero, for a voltage.
Also called peak voltage, or maximum voltage (1).
crest voltmeter An AC voltmeter which indicates the crest
value of an applied voltage. Also called peak voltmeter.
crimp connection A connection in which the joined conduc-
tors are pressed, pinched, or twisted together, as opposed to
soldered. Also called solderless connection.
crimp contact An electric contact in which the connected
conductors are pressed, pinched, or twisted together, as op-
posed to soldered. A specialized tool may be used for this.
AIso called solderless contact.
crimp terminal A terminal which is joined via a crimp con-
nection. Also called solderless terminal.
crippled version A computer software or hardware version in
which certain key features are unavailable. May be used, for
instance, for trial periods. AIso called crippleware.
crippleware
crippleware Same as crippled version.
critical angle The minimum angle, with respect to the verti-
cal, that will completely reflect an incident electromagnetic
wave back into the medium from which it came. If the an-
gIe is lesser than this minimum, part or all of the radiation
will penetrate or be absorbed by the medium which would
have otherwise reflected it. For instance, the minimum an-
gie necessary for radio-frequency waves to be totally re-
flected by the ionosphere.
critical characteristic A property or process which directly
affects the safety functions of a device, piece of equipment,
or system. These must be observed at all times to help avoid
hazardous conditions for those operating said devices,
equipment, or systems.
critical coupling The degree of coupling between two radio-
frequency resonant circuits which results in the maximum
transfer of energy between them, when both are tuned to the
same frequency. Also caJled optimum coupling.
critical current For a given temperature, and in the absence
of an external magnetic field, the maximum current a super-
conductive material can withstand while still maintaining its
superconductivity. Also called superconductor critical
current.
critical damping The degree of damping that provides the
fastest transient response without overshoot or oscillation.
In an indicator with a needle, for instance, it is the amount of
damping that allows the needle to proceed as quickly as pos-
sible to a new reading, while not overshooting it or oscillat-
ing around it. Also called optimum damping.
critical dimension In a waveguide, the dimension of the cross
section, which in tum determines its cutoff frequency. Also
called waveguide critical dimension.
critical field 1. Same as critical magnetic field. 2. For a
given anode voltage in a magnetron, the smallest theoretical
value of magnetic flux density that would prevent an elec-
tron emitted from the cathode at zero velocity from reaching
the anode. Also called cutoff field.
critical flicker frequency 1. For a given luminance, the fre-
quency of light fluctuation that evokes a sensation of flicker.
Above this frequency, the perceived flicker disappears. The
perception of flickering is also influenced by the retinal
field-of-view, and color. Also called flicker frequency (2),
or flicker fusion rate. 2. For a given luminance, the fre-
quency of light fluctuation that evokes a sensation of flicker
half the time.
critical frequency 1. The frequency below which a vertically
propagated radio wave will be reflected by the ionosphere.
That is, any frequency above this will penetrate the iono-
sphere. This frequency varies by ionospheric layer and time
of day. Also called penetration frequency. 2. Same as
cutoff (2).
critical magnetic field For a given temperature, the maximum
magnetic field a superconductive material can withstand
while still maintaining its superconductivity, so long as the
critical current is not exceeded. Also called critical field
(1), or superconductor critical field.
critical path method A technique, used in project manage-
ment, in which a path connecting the key tasks is drawn.
Any delays in this path would ultimately delay the overall
project, while tasks that are not critical have a given slack
time incorporated. Its abbreviation is CPM.
critical potential The minimum potential at which the current
flowing through a device increases rapidly.
critical temperature In the absence of an external magnetic
field, the maximum temperature a superconductive material
can withstand while still maintaining its superconductivity,
so long as the critical current is not exceeded. Also ca1led
superconductor critical temperature.
critical voltage Same as cutoff voltage (2).
153 cross-connect
critical wavelength The wavelength corresponding to the
critical frequency.
CRO Abbreviation of cathode-ray oscilloscope.
crocodile clip A spring-loaded clip utilized to make tempo-
rary electric connections. It is long and narrow and has jag-
ged teeth, making for secure yet easy connections at the de-
sired test points. It resembles the head of an crocodile and is
also known as alligator clip.
Crookes dark space Same as cathode dark space.
Crookes radiometer A device consisting of an evacuated
bulb enclosing four vanes that are suspended, or otherwise
allowed to move with the least possible friction. The vanes
are arranged like a turnstile and are black on one side, and
white or polished on the other. The incident radiant energy,
such as that from sunlight, is converted into motion, and the
greater the intensity, the faster the motion. Also called ra-
diometer (2).
Crookes tube An early version of a CRT, used to study prop-
erties of streams of electrons.
cross 1. A point where wires, Jines, conductors, or the like,
make contact. Also, to make such contact, or the state of be-
ing in such contact. 2. That which combines characteristics
of two or more different components, circuits, devices, sys-
tems, materials, and so on.
cross antenna An antenna consisting of two horizontal radia-
tors which intersect at right angles. Such an antenna is fed
at the intersection, and the radiators mayor may not be of
equal length.
cross-assembler An assembler that converts assembly lan-
guage for one hardware platform into machine language for
another hardware platform.
cross-band Same as cross-band communications.
cross-band communications Two-way communications in
which a given frequency or band is used in one direction,
while another frequency or band is used in the other. Each
direction may have different propagation characteristics.
This arrangement may be utilized, for example, in a com-
munications satellite. Also spelled crossband communica-
tions. Also caJled cross-band, or cross-band operation.
cross-band operation Same as cross-band communications.
cross-bar switch Same as crossbar switch.
cross bearings The intersection point of two or more bear-
ings, which in tum provides a fix.
cross-channel communications Same as cross-channel
operation.
cross-channel operation Two-way communications in which
a given frequency or band is used in one direction, while an-
other frequency or band is used in the other. Each direction
has the same propagation characteristics. Also called cross-
channel communications.
cross-check To verify by means of comparison with another
source, or through a different mode for obtaining the same
result. For instance, to check a calculation via two means of
calculation. Also spelled crosscheck.
cross-color Same as cross-color interference.
cross-color distortion Same as cross-color interference.
cross-color interference Spurious signals resulting from
interference between the luminance information and the
chrominance information in a TV receiver. May manifest
itself, for instance, as rainbow patterns appearing on striped
images. Also called cross-color distortion, cross-color, or
crosstalk (2).
cross-compiler A compiler that runs on a computer with one
hardware platform, and generates machine language to be
used with another hardware platform.
cross-connect In communications, a circuit path which can be
simply connected and reconnected to establish and change
cross-connection
routes. Used, for instance, in a digital cross-connectsystem.
Also called cross-connection.
cross-connection Same as cross-connect.
cross correlation The comparison at every point of the
change of two variables, to determine their correspondence.
Used especially to compare two signals.
cross-correlation detection Same as correlation detection.
cross-coupling 1. Unwanted coupling between two communi-
cation circuits or components. 2. Unwanted coupling be-
tween two circuits or components.
cross-field amplifier Same as crossed-field amplifier.
cross-field device Same as crossed-field device.
cross-field interaction The interaction between perpendicular
magneticand electric fields and an electron beam.
cross-field microwave tube Same as crossed-field micro-
wave tube.
cross flux For a given produced magnetic flux, the perpen-
dicular component.
cross-interleaved Reed-Solomon code A Reed-Solomon
code utilized for compact discs. Its abbreviationis CIRC.
cross modulation 1. Modulation of a carrier by a signal other
than that intended. For instance, the modulationof one car-
rier being imposed on another carrier. 2. Modulation of a
carrier by a signal other than that intended, in addition to the
intended signal. A manifestation may be the hearing of the
desired program in the foreground, while hearing an unde-
sired program in the background.
cross-neutralization In a push-pull amplifier, a method of
neutralizationin which capacitors are used for feedback
cross-over cable Same as crossover cable.
cross-platform Computer software or hardware which is
designed to work properly with more than one type of plat-
form. An interpreter version of LISP is platform-
independent, as is Java. This contrasts with platform-
dependent, in which software or hardware is designed to
work properly only with a specific platform. Also spelled
crossplatform. Also called platform neutral, platform-
independent, architecture-independent, or multiplat-
form.
cross-platform compatibility Characterized by being cross-
platform.
cross-point Same as crosspoint.
cross-point switch Same as crosspoint switch.
cross-polarized waves Waves whose electric lines of force
are at right angles to each other.
cross section 1. A section formed by cutting an object through
an axis, usually at a right angle to said axis. For instance,
such a section in a wire or a waveguide. 2. A graphical rep-
resentationofa cross section (1).
cross-sectional area The area occupied by a cross section.
Used mainly in the context of conductors or wires, and may
refer to single or multiple conductors.
cross-talk Same as crosstalk.
cross-talk coupling Same as crosstalk coupling.
cross-talk coupling loss Same as crosstalk coupling loss.
cross-talk level Same as crosstalk level.
cross-talk loss Same as crosstalk loss.
cross-talk unit Same as crosstalk unit.
crossband Same as cross-band communications.
crossband communications Same as cross-band communi-
cations.
crossband operation Same as cross-band communications.
crossbar switch A set of vertical and horizontal switches
arranged in a matrix, and which serves to connect any verti-
154 crosstalk coupling
cal point with any horizontal point. Such a switch may be
contained on a single chip, and may be used, for instance,
for switching in a communications network. Also spelled
cross-bar switch. Also called crosspoint switch.
crosscheck Same as cross-check.
crossed-field amplifier A beam-type microwave amplifier in
which the electron beam is influenced by perpendicular
magnetic and electric fields. Such an amplifier features high
gain and phase stability throughout a wide bandwidth. Also
called cross-field amplifier.
crossed-field device A device in which an electron beam is
influenced by perpendicular magnetic and electric fields.
Utilized to generate microwave radiation. Also called
cross-field device.
crossed-field microwave tube A microwave tube in which
the electron beam is influenced by perpendicular magnetic
and electric fields. Also caJled cross-field microwave tube.
crosshatch A pattern consisting of evenly spaced intersecting
parallel lines. Used, for instance, to fill in areas of computer
graphics. Also called crosshatch pattern.
crosshatch generator A signal generator that produces a test
pattern in the form of a crosshatch.
crosshatch pattern Same as crosshatch.
crossover 1. In a circuit, a point at which two properly insu-
lated conductors cross paths. 2. In a circuit diagram, a point
at which the lines representing two conductors, which are
not connected, cross paths. 3. Same as crossover network.
crossover cable A special network connector cable within
which two or more conductors are reversed from one end to
the other. Such cables may be connected directly to certain
Ethernet adapters, and may be used, for instance, to connect
two computers for fast and easy file transfers. Also spelled
cross-over cable.
crossover distortion In a push-pull amplifier, a form of dis-
tortion that occurs when the two matched devices, such as
transistors,are not in correct phase with each other.
crossover frequency The frequency, within a crossover net-
work, at which the power supplied to the two output circuits
is equal. For instance, in a two-way speaker, the frequency
at which the woofer and tweeter receive the same power.
Above this frequency the tweeter gets more power, while the
woofer gets more power below it.
crossover network A filter circuit in a speaker which divides
the input audio frequencies and sends the corresponding
bands of frequencies to the designated speaker units, such as
woofers, midranges, tweeters, super-tweeters, and so on.
Also called crossover (3), dividing network, frequency
dividing network, speaker dividing network, or loud-
speaker dividing network.
crossplatform Same as cross-platform.
crosspoint A single intersection point within a crossbar
switch. Also spelled cross-point.
crosspoint switch Same as crossbar switch.
crosstalk Also spelled cross-talk. I. Interference resulting
from the unwanted transfer of energy between channels, cir-
cuits, or signal paths. Crosstalk may occur, for instance, be-
tween telephone lines, audio channels in an amplifier, be-
tweenTV audioand videosignals, or betweenantennas. 2. Same
as cross-color interference. 3. The usuaJly unwanted trans-
fer of a recorded signal between sections of a magnetic me-
dium such as a tape. This may occur as a result of the af-
fected sections being in close proximity, as occurs with
overlapping segments of a reel of tape. Also called mag-
netic printing (1), magnetic transfer, or print-through.
crosstalk coupling Unwanted coupling occurring between
two communication circuits or components, under specified
conditions. It is usuaJly measured at specific points of each
circuit, and is expressed in decibels. Also speIJed cross-talk
crosstalk coupling loss ISS
coupling. Also called crosstalk loss, or crosstalk coupling
loss.
crosstalk coupling loss Same as crosstalk coupling. Also
spelled cross-talk coupling loss.
crosstalk level The level of crosstalk (1). Usually expressed
in decibels above a given reference value. Also spelled
cross-talk level.
crosstalk loss Same as crosstalk coupling. Also spelled
cross-talk loss.
crosstalk unit A unit for quantifying crosstalk (1). Also
spelled cross-talk unit.
crowbar 1. A circuit or device which protects against over-
voltage, by rapidly placing a Jow-resistance shunt across the
terminals where a given voltage is exceeded. Also called
overvoltage crowbar (1). 2. The low-resistance shunt util-
ized in a crowbar (1). AIso called overvoltage crowbar
(2). 3. The action of a crowbar (1).
crowbar circuit A circuit which serves as a crowbar (1).
Also called overvoltage crowbar circuit.
CRT Abbreviation of cathode-ray tube. An evacuated elec-
tron tube which converts electrical signals into a visible
form. In it, one or more electron guns produce one or more
electron beams which are deflected and focused, en route to
striking a phosphor surface on the back of the viewing
screen. This surface glows, producing the visible images on
the front of the screen. Used extensively as the display unit
in computer monitors, TV s, oscilloscopes, automated teller
machines, and so on. Also, such a tube and its housing.
CRT computer monitor Abbreviation of cathode-ray tube
computer monitor. A computer monitor which utilizes a
CRT to produce the displayed images.
CRT display Abbreviation of cathode-ray tube display.
1. The image produced by a CRT. 2. Same as CRT screen.
3. The displaying of an image on a CRT.
CRT display device Abbreviation of cathode-ray tube dis-
play device. A display device which utilizes a CRT to pro-
duce the displayed images. Also called CRT terminal.
CRT monitor Abbreviation of cathode-ray tube monitor. A
monitor which utilizes a CRT to produce the displayed im-
ages.
CRT screen Abbreviation of cathode-ray tube screen. The
viewing screen of a CRT. Also called CRT display (2).
CRT terminal Abbreviation of cathode-ray tube terminal.
Same as CRT display device.
crunch 1. To process information, especially that requiring a
large amount of computations. 2. To compress data.
cryoelectronic Pertaining to cryoelectronics.
cryoelectronics Abbreviation of cryogenic electronics. Its
acronym is cryotronics. 1. The study of electronic compo-
nents, circuits, devices, equipment, and systems designed for
use at cryogenic temperatures. Applications include super-
conductors, computers, and lasers. 2. Components, circuits,
devices, equipment, and systems utilized at cryogenic tem-
peratures.
cryogen A substance that is utilized to obtain cryogenic tem-
peratures. An example is a cryogenic fluid.
cryogenic Pertaining to cryogenics.
cryogenic conductor A material, usually a metal or an alloy,
which is capable of exhibiting superconductor properties
when cooled to cryogenic temperatures. Also called super-
conductor (3).
cryogenic device 1. A device that exhibits special properties,
such as superconductivity, at cryogenic temperatures. 2. A
device operated at cryogenic temperatures.
cryogenic electronics Same as cryoelectronics.
cryogenic fluid A substance that remains as a liquid or gas at
cryogenic temperatures. For instance, helium remains a
cryptographic logic
fluid to about 1 K, and only then if also under high pressure.
If such a substance is a liquid it is called cryogenic liquid,
and if a gas, it is called cryogenic gas.
cryogenic gas A substance that remains as a gas at cryogenic
temperatures.
cryogenic gyroscope A gyroscope in which a central rotating
disk of superconducting niobium spins while in levitation at
cryogenic temperatures. Also called superconductor gyro-
scope.
cryogenic laser A laser which is operated at cryogenic tem-
peratures.
cryogenic liquid A substance that remains as a liquid at cryo-
genic temperatures.
cryogenic motor An electric motor designed to be used at
cryogenic temperatures.
cryogenic spectroscopy Spectroscopy in which the analyzed
substance is kept at a cryogenic temperature.
cryogenic temperature A temperature within a cryogenic
temperature range.
cryogenic temperature range An interval of very low tem-
peratures, whose range includes absolute zero. For instance,
any temperature that falls between 0 K and 50 K.
cryogenics The study of very low temperatures, phenomena
occurring at these temperatures, and techniques for achiev-
ing and maintaining such temperatures. Its applications in
electronics are many, including its use in superconductors,
lasers, and particle accelerators.
cryosar A semiconductor device used for switching at cryo-
genic temperatures. Used, for instance, for high-speed com-
puter memory.
cryotron A superconductor device used for switching at cryo-
genic temperatures. In it, a magnetic field created by a con-
trol current determines whether the device operates as a su-
perconductor or as a normal conductor. Used, for instance,
for computer storage.
cryotronics Same as cryoelectronics.
cryptanalysis Also called cryptoanalysis. t. The analysis of
a cryptographic system, so as to ascertain its function.
2. The analysis of encrypted information, so as to ascertain
its data content.
crypto Abbreviation of cryptography.
cryptoanalysis Same as cryptanalysis.
cryptographic Pertaining to cryptography.
cryptographic algorithm A sequence of defined steps util-
ized to implement a cryptographic function. For instance, a
cryptographic hash algorithm.
cryptographic equipment Equipment which performs one or
more cryptographic functions.
cryptographic function Any function used in cryptography.
Such functions include encryption of data, and authentica-
tion of digital signatures.
cryptographic hash Same as cryptographic hash function.
cryptographic hash algorithm Same as cryptographic hash
function.
cryptographic hash function An algorithm, utilized in cryp-
tography, that compresses a variable-sized input into a
fixed-sized output. Such an algorithm is one-way, meaning
that it is extraordinarily difficult to derive the input value
from the output value. Used, for instance, in the creation of
digital signatures. Also called cryptographic hash algo-
rithm, or cryptographic hash.
cryptographic key A mathematical value used to control a
cryptographic process such as encryption, authentication, or
decryption.
cryptographic logic A sequence of defined steps utilized to
perform a cryptographic function.
cryptography 156
cryptography The science of coding information so that only
the intended recipients can understand it. All aspects of the
security of communications are investigated, such as the is-
sue of message interception. Its abbreviation is crypto.
cryptologic Pertaining to cryptology.
cryptology The science that deals with encrypted, hidden, or
disguised communications. It includes the techniques util-
ized for securing the information, and those for deciphering
and/or finding it.
cryptosystem A process, system, or method of cryptogra-
phy. For instance, public-key cryptography.
crystal 1. A homogeneous solid material with geometrically
arranged outer surfaces, and a symmetrical internal struc-
ture. Crystals may be composed of atoms, molecules, or
ions, and each has speci fie properties, such as index of re-
fraction, hardness, and a unique crystal lattice. The applica-
tions of crystals in electronics are many, including their use
in lasers, semiconductors, and in miniaturized components.
2. A specific crystal fragment, such as quartz crystal, a pie-
zoelectric crystal, or semiconductor crystal.
crystal activity A measure of the amplitude of the vibrations,
under given conditions, of a piezoelectric crystal.
crystal calibrator A crystal oscillator utilized as a frequency
standard.
crystal cartridge 1. A phonographic pickup whose transducer
is a piezoelectric crystal, which converts the movements of
the stylus into the corresponding audio-frequency voltage
output. Also called crystal pickup, or piezoelectric
pickup. 2. A microphone whose transducer is a piezoelec-
tric crystal, which converts audio-frequency vibrations into
the corresponding audio-frequency voltage output. Also
caIJed crystal microphone, or piezoelectric microphone.
crystal clock A clock which incorporates a quartz-crystal
oscillator, whose natural oscillation frequency determines
the accuracy of the timepiece. Such a clock can have an
analog or digital display, and may have an error of less than
0.1 second per year. Also called quartz crystal clock, or
quartz clock.
crystal control The use of a piezoelectric crystal, usually
quartz, to control the frequency of an oscillator. When the
crystal is quartz, also called quartz control.
crystal-controlled oscillator Same as crystal oscillator.
crystal-controlled transmitter An RF transmitter whose
carrier frequency is controlled by a piezoelectric crystal os-
cillator. When the piezoelectric crystal is quartz, it is also
called quartz-controlled transmitter.
crystal current The current that flows through a crystal. For
instance, the RF current that flows through a piezoelectric
crystal in a crystal oscillator.
crystal cut A section of a piezoelectric crystal accurately cut
along certain axes, to determine characteristics such as its
natural vibration frequency. Also serves to classify crystals
so cut. For example, an AT or BT cut crystal. Also called
cut (2).
crystal defect A flaw in the geometric arrangement of the
contained atoms, molecules, or ions of a crystal. Also called
crystal imperfection, or lattice defect.
crystal detector A crystal which converts an AC signal into a
pulsating DC. It can be used, for instance, to rectify a
modulated RF signal to obtain an audio or video signal.
crystal diffraction The diffraction by a crystal of incident
beams, such as that of X-rays or electrons. Used for in-
stance, in a crystal spectrometer.
crystal-diffraction spectrometer Same as crystal spec-
trometer.
crystal diode Also called crystal rectifier, or semiconductor
diode. 1. A semiconductor device with two terminals, 2. A
crystal speaker
semiconductor device with two terminals, which is utilized
for rectification.
crystal earphones Earphones whose transducer is a
piezoelectric crystal. Also called piezoelectric earphones.
crystal filter A filter circuit utilizing one or more piezoelec-
tric crystals. Such filters feature high selectivity and a good
shape factor, and may be used, for instance, in intermediate-
frequency amplifiers. Also called piezoelectric filter.
crystal growth furnace A furnace designed to provide the
proper conditions for growing particular kinds of crystals,
such as large single crystals.
crystal headphones Headphones whose transducer is a piezo-
electric crystal. Also called piezoelectric headphones.
crystal holder A device which serves to support, protect,
house, and provide connections for a piezoelectric crystal, so
that its properties can be best incorporated into any given
device.
crystal imperfection Same as crystal defect.
crystal laser A laser, such as a ruby laser, which uses a crys-
tal to generate the coherent beam of light.
crystal lattice The geometric arrangement in space of the
atoms, molecules, or ions of a crystal. The pattern of such a
lattice is regular and three-dimensional. Also called space
lattice, or lattice (2).
crystal-lattice filter A filter circuit utilizing an arrangement
of piezoelectric crystals to obtain the desired characteristics.
crystal loudspeaker Same as crystal speaker.
crystal microphone Same as crystal cartridge (2).
crystal mixer A mixer that uses the nonlinear characteristic of
a semiconductor diode crystal to mix two input signals.
Used, for instance, in radars.
crystal oscillator An oscilJator circuit which utilizes a piezo-
electric crystal, usually quartz, to control the oscillation fre-
quency. Such oscillators feature a highly accurate and stable
output, especially when in a temperature-controlled envi-
ronment. Its abbreviation is XO. Also called crystal-
controlled oscillator, or piezoelectric oscillator.
crystal oven A chamber whose internal temperature is care-
fully controlled, so as to provide a piezoelectric crystal with
an operating environment which minimizes frequency drift.
crystal pickup Same as crystal cartridge (1).
crystal plate A piezoelectric crystal that has been cut, etched,
coated, and otherwise fully prepared to be mounted on its
crystal holder. Also called piezoelectric plate.
crystal pulling A technique used for cultivating crystals, in
which a growing crystal is slowly withdrawn from a molten
solution of the crystal. Also called pulling (3).
crystal radio Same as crystal set.
crystal receiver Same as crystal set.
crystal rectifier Same as crystal diode.
crystal resonator A resonant circuit which utilizes a quartz
piezoelectric crystal to control the resonance frequency.
Such resonators may be used, for instance, to control the
frequency of an oscillator, and feature a highly accurate and
stable output, especially when in a temperature-controlled
environment. Also called quartz-crystal resonator, quartz
resonator, or piezoelectric resonator.
crystal sensor A sensor whose detecting element is a piezo-
electric crystal, especially quartz. An example is that used
in a quartz thermometer. Also called piezoelectric sensor.
crystal set A simple radio receiver which incorporates a crys-
tal detector or diode, a tuned circuit, and earphones or a low-
power speaker. Such a receiver has no amplifier stages.
Also called crystal receiver, or crystal radio.
crystal speaker A speaker whose transducer is a piezoelectric
crystal, which converts its audio-frequency voltage input
crystal spectrometer 157
into the corresponding audio-frequency vibrations. Mostly
used for reproduction of high frequencies. Also called crys-
tal loudspeaker, or piezoelectric speaker.
crystal spectrometer An instrument used to analyze crystal
structure by using X-rays. In it, a beam of collimated X-
rays strikes the crystal, and a detector measures the angles
and intensities of the reflected beam. Applying Bragg's
Law to these measurements yields details about the crystal
structure. Used, for instance, for X-ray diffraction studies
that determine the structure of crystalline DNA. DNA is the
abbreviation of deoxyribonucleic acid, and in its strands are
contained the chemical basis of heredity. Also known as
crystal-diffraction spectrometer, Bragg spectrometer, or
ionization spectrometer.
crystal tester A device utilized for testing crystals, such as
quartz, used in electronics. For instance, it may verify if a
crystal oscillates, its frequency, its temperature coefficient,
and so on.
crystal transducer A transducer whose sensitive element is a
piezoelectric crystal, especially quartz. Piezoelectric crys-
tals, when subjected to mechanical energy, generate electri-
cal energy, and vice versa. Used, for example, in micro-
phones, pickups, and speakers. AIso called piezoelectric
transducer.
crystal unit A piezoelectric crystal mounted on its crystal
holder.
crystal video receiver A video receiver which incorporates a
crystal detector that converts the incoming microwave signal
into a video and/or audio signal. Used, for instance, in ra-
dars.
crystal whisker A single-crystal filament made of a metal,
such as cobalt, or a refractory material, such as aluminum
oxide. Such crystals feature very high tensile strength and
temperature resistance. Also called whisker (1).
crystalline Pertaining to, composed of, or incorporating one
or more crystals.
crystallography The science that deals with crystal forma-
tion, structure, and phenomena.
Cs Chemical symbol for cesium.
CSA Abbreviation of client/server architecture.
CSCL Abbreviation of computer-supported collaborative
learning.
CSCW Abbreviation of computer-supported collaborative
work.
CSD Abbreviation of circuit-switched data.
CSLIP Acronym for Compressed SLIP.
CSMA Abbreviation of carrier sense multiple access.
CSMA/CA Abbreviation of carrier sense multiple access
with collision avoidance.
CSMA/CD Abbreviation of carrier sense multiple access
with collision detection.
CSNET An academic and research computer network which
was merged with BITNET to form a network run by CREN.
It was originally an abbreviation of Computer and Science
Network.
CSP Abbreviation of chip-scale package.
CSS Abbreviation of cascading style sheets.
CSTN Abbreviation of color super-twist nematic.
CSTN display Abbreviation of color super-twist nematic
display.
CSU Abbreviation of channel service unit.
CSU/DSU Abbreviation of channel service unit/data service
unit.
CSV Abbreviation of circuit-switched voice.
CSWR Abbreviation of current standing-wave ratio.
cupric chloride
CT 1. Abbreviation of computed tomography, computer-
ized tomography, or computer tomography. 2. Abbrevia-
tion of center tap. 3. Abbreviation of computer telephony.
CT -cut crystal A piezoelectric crystal cut used for vibration
frequencies below 1 MHz.
CT scan Same as computed tomography.
CT scanner An instrument which takes a computed tomo-
graphy. It is an abbreviation of computed tomography
scanner, computerized tomography scanner, or computer
tomography scanner.
CTn Abbreviation of charge-transfer device.
CTE Abbreviation of coefficient of thermal expansion.
CTFM sonar Abbreviation of continuous-transmission
frequency-modulated sonar.
CTFT Abbreviation of color thin-film transistor.
CTFT display Abbreviation of color thin-film transistor
display.
CTI Abbreviation of computer telephony integration, or
computer telephone integration.
Ctrl Abbreviation of control key.
CTRL Abbreviation of control key.
Ctrl-Alt-Del The simultaneously holding down of the Ctrl,
Alt, and delete keys on a computer keyboard. Used, for in-
stance, to reboot some systems.
Ctrl-Break Abbreviation of Control-Break. The pressing of
the break key while holding down the control key on a com-
puter keyboard. This key combination may be used, for in-
stance, to stop a given operation in progress.
CTRL-BREAK Same as Ctrl-Break.
Ctrl key Abbreviation of control key.
CTRL+ALT+DEL Same as Ctrl-Alt-Del.
Ctrl+click Abbreviation of control+click.
CTS 1. Abbreviation of clear to send. 2. Abbreviation of
carpal-tunnel syndrome.
Cu Chemical symbol for copper.
cubical antenna An antenna whose radiating elements are
arranged so as to form a cube.
cubical quad antenna An essentially omnidirectional antenna
whose elements are in the shape of four-sided loops. Two
elements are usually utilized, one driven and the other para-
sitic. Also called quad antenna.
cue circuit A one-way communications circuit utilized to
transmit control information. May be used for radio and TV
programming.
cumulative backup A data backup technique in which the
only files copied are those that have been modified since the
last backup, and in which all versions are saved, not just the
last one, as is the case of a differential backup. This also
contrasts with a full backup, in which all files are copied,
including those that have not been modified since the previ-
ous backup. Also called incremental backup.
cumulative ionization Also called cascade (2), avalanche,
Townsend ionization, Townsend avalanche, or ion ava-
lanche. When the only produced charged particles are elec-
trons, it is called electron avalanche. 1. A cumulative ioni-
zation process in which charged particles are accelerated by
an electric field and collide with neutral particles, creating
additional charged particles. These additional particles col-
lide with others, so as to create an avalanche effect. 2. In
semiconductors, the cumulative generation of free charge
carriers in an avalanche breakdown.
cup core A core which encloses a coil, providing a magnetic
shield.
cupric bromide Same as copper bromide.
cupric chloride Same as copper chloride.
cupric cyanide IS8
cupric cyanide Same as copper cyanide.
cupric ferrocyanide Same as copper ferrocyanide.
cupric hydroxide Same as copper hydroxide.
cupric nitrate Same as copper nitrate.
cupric oxide A brownish black powder whose chemical for-
mula is CuO. It is used in batteries, electrodes, and in elec-
troplating. Also called copper monoxide, or copper oxide
black.
cupric selenide Same as copper selenide.
cupric sulfate Same as copper sulfate.
cupric tungstate Same as copper tungstate.
cuprous cyanide A chemical compound whose formula is
CuCN. It is used in electroplating.
cuprous oxide Reddish-brown crystals whose chemical for-
mula is CUzO. Used in electroplating, ceramics, rectifiers,
and photocells. Also called copper oxide red, or copper
suboxide.
cuprous selenide Dark blue to black crystals whose chemical
formula is CusSe, Used in semiconductors.
cuprous sulfide A blue to black powder whose chemical
formula is CuzS. Used in solar cells, rectifiers, and elec-
trodes.
curie A unit of radioactivity defined as exactly 3.7 x 1010
atomic disintegrations per second, which is the approximate
decay rate of one gram of pure radium. Its abbreviation is
Ci.
Curie law A law stating that the susceptibility of certain
paramagnetic materials is inversely proportional to its abso-
Jute temperature. It doesn't always hold true, especially for
liquids or solids.
Curie point Same as Curie temperature.
Curie temperature The temperature at which the ferromag-
netic properties of a material become paramagnetic. At or
above this temperature, the thermal energy in the material is
too great to exhibit ferromagnetism. Also called Curie
point, ferromagnetic Curie temperature, or magnetic
transition temperature.
Curie-Weiss law A variation of the Curie law which takes
into account the mutual interactions between particles, espe-
cially in a liquid or solid. Only holds true at temperatures
above the Curie temperatu reo
curium A synthetic element whose atomic number is 96. It is
a reactive silvery-white metal, and has about 20 known iso-
topes, all of which are unstable. It is used, for instance, for
compact thermionic or thermoelectric power generation, es-
pecially for use in remote areas such as outer space. Its
chemical symbol is Cm.
current Its symbol is I, and it is expressed in amperes. Also
called electric current. 1. A flow of an electric charge
through a conductor. Electrons, electron holes, or ions may
transport an electric charge. 2. The rate of flow of electric
charge through a conductor.
current amplification Also called current gain. 1. For an
amplifying device such as a transistor, electron tube, or pho-
tomultiplier tube, the ratio of the output current to the input
current. Also called current ratio. 2. The production of an
output current which is greater than the input current.
current amplifier A device, such as a transistor or electron
tube, whose output current is greater than its input current.
current antinode For a medium having standing waves, such
as a transmission line or antenna, the point at which there is
a maximum of current. Also called current loop.
current attenuation 1. For an amplifying device such as a
transistor, electron tube, or photomultiplier tube, the ratio of
the input current to the output current. 2. The production of
an output current which is lesser than the input current.
current intensity
current balance An ammeter which operates by having a
current pass through two nearby coi Is connected in series.
One of the coils is fixed, while the other is attached to the
arm of a balance. The attractive force between the coils is
counterweighed by the force of gravity acting on a known
weight on the arm of the balance, which in tum indicates the
current strength on its scale. Also called Ampere balance,
or Kelvin balance.
current calibrator A source whose steady current level
serves as a basis for calibrating instruments.
current-carrying capacity The maximum amount of current
that a conductor can handle safely.
current coefficient 1. A coefficient depicting a current
change resulting from a variation in another electrical pa-
rameter, such as voltage or resistance. 2. A coefficient de-
picting a variation in another electrical parameter, such as
voltage or resistance, resulting from a current change.
current consumption Same as current drain.
current-controlled current source A dependent source
whose level of output current depends on its input current.
An example is a current amplifier. Its abbreviation is
CCCS.
current-controlled device A device, such as a switch, whose
function is controlled by an input current.
current-controlled switch A switch, such as a semiconductor
device, whose switching action is determined by an input
current.
current-controlled voltage source A dependent source
whose level of output voltage depends on its input current.
An example is a transresistance amplifier. Its abbreviation
isCCVS.
current crest Same as current peak.
current density The current flowing per unit of cross-
sectional area of a conductor. Its SI unit is amperes per
square meter. Its symbol is J. Also called electric current
density.
current detector A component, circuit, or device which indi-
cates the presence of a current.
current divider A device which serves to deliver a given
proportion of the total current to one or more circuits or
branches.
current drain The current a circuit or load draws from a
power source. Also called current consumption, or drain
(1).
current feed The feeding of an antenna by connecting its
transmission line at a current antinode.
current feedback Feedback in which a proportion of the
current output to the load is fed back to the input circuit in
series.
current flow The flow of an electric charge through a con-
ducting medium. Electrons, electron holes, or ions may
transport an electric charge.
current gain Same as current amplification.
current generator 1. A device which generates DC. For
instance, a rotating electric machine which converts me-
chanical power into DC power. 2. A device which generates
AC. For example, a rotating electric machine which con-
verts mechanical power into AC power.
current hogging The undesired condition in which one out of
multiple components operated in parallel draws more cur-
rent than it should. This can lead to a malfunction or failure
of the component.
current-instruction register Same as control register.
current intensity The magnitude of a current flow. Also
called current strength, or current magnitude. When ex-
pressed in amperes it is called amperage.
current lag 159
current lag Within a circuit, a change in current which lags
behind a change in voltage. For example, in an inductive
circuit the current lags behind an applied voltage. This con-
trasts with current lead.
current lead Within a circuit, a change in current which leads
a change in voltage. For instance, in a capacitive circuit the
current leads an applied voltage. This contrasts with cur-
rent lag.
current leakage Also called leakage current. t. Current
which flows through unwanted paths of a circuit, such as
from the output to the input when not intended. 2. Current
which flows between electrodes of an electron tube by any
route except the interelectrode space. 3. Current which
flows along the surface or through the body of a dielectric or
insulator. 4. DC which flows through the dielectric of a ca-
pacitor. 5. AC which flows through a rectifier without being
rectified. 6. Current which flows through a component, cir-
cuit, or device which is in the off state. Also called off-state
leakage current.
current limit 1. The maximum output current a current
limiter allows. 2. The maximum current a device can han-
dle without damage.
current limiter A device which limits its output current to a
given maximum value, regardless of the applied voltage.
Used, for instance, to protect equipment from surges. It may
or may not provide protection for lesser fluctuations in cur-
rent or voltage, which may also be destructive. Also called
current-limiting device.
current limiting The limiting of an output current to a given
maximum value, through the use of a current limiter.
current-limiting device Same as current limiter.
current-limiting fuse A fuse which interrupts a current that
exceeds a given value. Used to protect components and
equipment.
current-limiting resistor A resistor that limits the flow of a
current to a given maximum value. Used to protect compo-
nents and equipment. Also called limiting resistor.
current loop Same as current antinode.
current magnitude Same as current intensity.
current maximum Same as current peak.
current meter A device which measures and indicates cur-
rent. For instance, an ammeter or a galvanometer.
current mirror A circuit in which the current on one side is
forced to be a replica of that of the other side. Accom-
plished, for instance, by the bases and emitters of two bipo-
lar junction transistors being connected together.
current-mode logic A logic circuit in which the transistors
operate in an unsaturated mode, which provides faster
switching. Its abbreviation is CML.
current node For a medium having standing waves, such as a
transmission line or antenna, the point at which there is a
minimum of current, or zero current.
current noise Also called excess noise. 1. Electrical noise
produced by current flowing through an electrical compo-
nent, especially a resistor. 2. Electrical noise produced by
current flowing through a semiconductor material.
current peak Also called current maximum, current peak
value, or current crest. 1. The maximum value of a cur-
rent. 2. The maximum value of the displacement from a ref-
erence position, such as zero, for a current. 3. The current
peak (1), or current peak (2) for a given time interval.
current peak value Same as current peak.
current rating 1. The maximum amount of current that a
conductor or device can handle safely. 2. The maximum
amount of continuous current that a conductor or device can
handle safely, or within a prescribed operating temperature
range.
cursor control device
current ratio Same as current amplification (l).
current-regulated power supply Same as constant-current
source.
current-regulated supply Same as constant-current source.
current regulation The maintenance of the current flowing
through a circuit essentially constant utilizing a current
regulator.
current regulator A device which maintains the current
flowing through a circuit essentially constant, despite varia-
tions in variables such as load resistance, line voltage, and
temperature, so long as they are within a prescribed range.
current relay A relay which is actuated at a specific current
value, as opposed to a given voltage or power value.
current saturation In an electron tube, the condition in which
the anode current can not be further increased, regardless of
any additional voltage applied to it, since essentially all
available electrons are already being drawn to said anode.
Also called plate saturation, anode saturation, voltage
saturation, or saturation (3).
current source A source from which current flows. For
example, a power outlet.
current standing-wave ratio For a given transmission line,
such as a coaxial cable or waveguide, the ratio of the maxi-
mum current to the minimum current. It is a measure of the
impedance matching of the line. This ratio is equal to I
when there is complete impedance matching, in which case
the maximum possible RF power reaches the load, such as
an antenna. Its abbreviation is CSWR. Also called stand-
ing-wave ratio (2).
current strength Same as current intensity.
current surge A sudden and momentary increase in current.
May be caused, for instance, by lightning, or faults in cir-
cuits. I f protective measures are not employed, such a surge
may bring about a failure, or significant damage. Also
called surge current, or transient current.
current transformer A transformer utilized for increasing or
decreasing current. For example, an arrangement in which
the primary winding of such a transformer is connected in
series with the main circuit, with the secondary winding to a
measuring instrument, can help avoid exposing said instru-
ment to a current whose magnitude is too great.
current-voltage characteristic For a component, circuit, or
device, a curve plotting current as a function of voltage.
Also called current-voltage curve.
current-voltage curve Same as current-voltage characteris-
tic.
cursor I. On a display, especiaJly that of a computer screen,
an indicator such as a blinking underline or a solid rectangle
which indicates the location where a keystroke will appear
on screen. Also called insertion point (1). 2. On a com-
puter screen, an indicator, such as a small hand, arrow, or 1-
beam, that moves as the mouse is moved. It serves to select
text, menus, and the area of the screen where the next text
input or other action will occur, by clicking the mouse there.
Also called pointer (1), mouse pointer, or mouse cursor.
3. A cursor (2) indicated by a pointing device, such as a
trackball, other than a mouse. 4. The pointing device of a
digitizing tablet. It is similar to a mouse, but is much more
accurate, because its location is determined by touching an
active surface with an absolute reference. Also called pen
(1), puck, or stylus (1).
cursor control The control of the movement or placement of
a cursor (2) or cursor (3). A cursor may be moved or
placed in various manners, including the use of keyboard
keys, pointing devices such as a mouse, or a system in
which a camera detects head motions.
cursor control device A device used for cursor control.
cursor key
cursor key A computer keyboard key which moves the
pointer or cursor displayed on the screen. These include the
arrows, home, and page down keys. These keys may also be
used in association with a control key for more specialized
movements.
curtain array An antenna array consisting of a series of wire
elements, usually half-wave dipoles, held vertically between
two suspension cables.
curve 1. A smooth and continuous line whose points all lie
along a single dimension. This definition includes straight
lines, and may represent, for instance, the graph of an equa-
tion or function. Also, that which has this shape. 2. A
smooth and continuous line whose points all lie along a sin-
gle dimension, and which has no parts that are straight. This
definition does not include straight lines.
curve tracer An instrument which charts a voltage or current
as a function of another voltage or current, for a given volt-
age or current. Used, for instance, to chart a characteristic
curve of a component.
custom That which is made to order. For instance, custom
software, or a custom IC.
custom IC Abbreviation of custom integrated circuit. An IC
which is designed for a particular function, application, or
for given operating conditions. For instance, such an IC
may be required for use in an unduly harsh working envi-
ronment.
custom integrated circuit Same as custom IC.
custom-shaped CD An optical disc, such as a CD, CD-ROM,
or DVD, that is in any shape other than round. An example
is a CD business card.
custom software Software prepared especially to tailor to
specific needs or circumstances. This contrasts with pack-
aged software, which is sold to the general public. Most
programs do, however, offer the ability to customize certain
features. Also called customized software.
customer premises equipment Communications and/or
network equipment situated at a user's location. Examples
include regular telephones, DSL splitters, terminal equip-
ment, voice ports, and decoder boxes. Its abbreviation is
CPE.
customizability The extent to which something can be made
or altered to order. For example, the flexibility a computer
program has for better addressing different tasks.
customize To make or alter to order. For example, to modify
a computer program to better address a given task.
customized software Same as custom software.
cut 1. To remove part of something, such as a portion of a
document. 2. Same as crystal cut.
cut and paste In computers, to remove something from one
location, to then place it in another. For instance, to remove
content such as text and/or images from one document and
place it elsewhere in the same document, or in another. An-
other example is to remove several files from a directory and
place them in another. Its abbreviation is cut & paste.
cut-off To shut off, discontinue, separate, isolate, or block.
cut-off attennator Same as cutoff attenuator.
cut-off bias Same as cutoff bias.
cut-off current Same as collector-cutoff current.
cut-off field Same as critical field.
cut-off frequency Same as cutoff frequency.
cut-off limiting Same as cutoff limiting.
cut-off point Same as cutoff point.
cut-off voltage Same as cutoff voltage.
cut-off wavelength Same as cutoff wavelength.
cut-out Same as cutout.
160 CWIS
cut & paste Same as cut and paste.
Cutler feed An antenna feed system in which RF energy is
transferred from a resonant cavity at the end of a waveguide
to the reflector.
cutoff 1. The action of shutting off, discontinuing, separating,
isolating, or blocking. Also, such an instance. 2. For a de-
vice such as a filter, amplifier, waveguide, or transmission
line, the frequency at which the attenuation increases rap-
idly. For example, the frequency above which the output of
an electron tube is no longer useful. Also called cutoff fre-
quency (1), critical frequency (1), or frequency cutoff (1).
3. The upper and lower frequencies at which the gain of an
amplifier, such as a transistor, drops 3 decibels, or another
reference amount. Also called cutoff frequency (2), or fre-
quency cutoff (2). 4. For a given transmission mode in a
waveguide, the frequency below which a traveling wave can
not be maintained. That is, the waveguide functions effi-
ciently only above this frequency. Also called cutoff fre-
quency (3), waveguide cutoff, or frequency cutoff (3).
S. The point at which the current flowing through an active
device, such as a transistor, is stopped by the control elec-
trode.
cutoff attenuator A non-dissipative attenuator consisting of
an adjustable length of waveguide used below its cutoff fre-
quency. Also spelled cut-off attenuator.
cutoff bias For an electron tube or transistor, the value of
control-electrode bias that stops the flow of output current.
Also spelled cut-off bias. Also called cutoff point (2).
cutoff current Same as collector-cutoff current. Also
spelled cut-off current.
cutotT field Same as critical field (2). Also spelled cut-off
field.
cutoff frequency Also spelled cut-off frequency. 1. Same as
cutoff (2). 2. Same as cutoff (3). 3. Same as cutoff (4).
cutotT limiting In an electron tube, the limiting of the output
voltage by driving the control grid voltage beyond cutoff.
Also spelled cut-otT limiting.
cutoff point Also spelled cut-off point. 1. For a device such
as a filter, amplifier, waveguide, or transmission line, the
frequency at which the attenuation increases rapidly, or at
which output is at a given level, such as 70.70/0 of the maxi-
mum. 2. Same as cutoff bias.
cutoff voltage Also spelled cut-off voltage. 1. For an elec-
tron tube or transistor, the value of control-electrode voltage
that stops the flow of output current. 2. For a given steady
magnetic flux density in a magnetron, the highest theoretical
value of anode voltage that would prevent an electron emit-
ted from the cathode at zero velocity from reaching the an-
ode. Also called critical voltage. 3. For a cell or battery,
the voltage at which discharge is complete. Also called
end-of-discharge voltage.
cutoff wavelength The wavelength corresponding to the
cutoff frequency. Also spelled cut-off wavelength.
cutout A device which under certain circumstances discon-
nects a component or circuit, in order to protect equipment.
An example is a circuit breaker. Its function is usually
automatic. Also spelled cut-out.
cutout box A box which houses a set of cutouts or fuses.
May be found, for instance, in a dwelling or vehicle.
CV Abbreviation of computer vision.
CVD Abbreviation of chemical-vapor deposition.
cw Abbreviation of clockwise.
CW 1. Abbreviation of carrier wave. 2. Abbreviation of
continuous wave.
CW laser Abbreviation of continuous-wave laser.
CW radar Abbreviation of continuous-wave radar.
CWIS Abbreviation of campus-wide information system.
cyan
cyan A greenish blue color. It is one of the primary colors
used in certain color processes, such as printing.
cyan-magenta-yellow A color model used for printing in
which any color is formed through the appropriate mixture
of cyan, magenta, and yellow inks. White means no mixture
of colors, and black is produced by adding 100% of each of
the colors. Its abbreviation is CMY
cyan-magenta-yellow-black A color model similar to cyan-
magenta-yellow, with the difference that black is produced
by a separate ink, instead of adding I OOO~ of each of the
other colors. This model provides for sharper black printed
output. Its abbreviation is CMYK.
cyber- A prefix which serves to produce derivative words
pertaining to computers and/or online concepts. For in-
stance, cyberspace. Originally an abbreviation of the word
cybernetic.
cyber cafe A public establishment which may serve beverages
and/or food, but whose primary service is the offering of one
or more terminals providing access to the Internet. Also
spelled cybercafe, Also called Internet cafe.
cyber warfare Same as cyberwar.
cybercafe Same as cyber cafe.
cybercash Also known by various other terms, including
cybermoney, electronic cash, e-money, and digital cash.
1. Any form of money used over the Internet. Used for
many purposes, such as effecting online purchases or mak-
ing credit card payments. Security is a key concern, and
considerable measures, such as cryptography, are taken to
avoid circumstances such as losses of funds, misplacement
of funds, stealing of funds, or the re-use of funds. 2. A form
of currency that is digitally encoded, and that can be con-
verted to legal tender if desired. It may be coded, for in-
stance, through the use of an encrypted serial number. Le-
gal tender is a lawfully valid currency that must be accepted
for payment of debts, the purchase of goods and/or services,
or for other exchanges for value. Circulating paper money
is another form of legal tender.
cybercrime Crimes, such as theft or fraud, committed in
cyberspace.
CyberMall A Web site shared by, or linking to, multiple
businesses. For example, a shopper may place products
from different merchants in a single shopping cart, for con-
venient payment and delivery.
cybermoney Same as cybercash.
cybernetic 1. Pertaining to cybernetics. 2. Pertaining to
computers and/or online concepts.
cybernetic organism Same as cyborg.
cybernetics The analysis of control and communications
processes and systems in living organisms and machines,
and how they relate to each other. Cybernetics may be used,
for instance, to design a machine capable of duplicating the
way a living organism adapts to its environment.
cybersex The use of cyberspace as a medium for matters
pertaining to eroticism.
cybersitter Software that blocks access to Web sites and/or
speci fie content deemed inappropriate or otherwise undesir-
able. When utilized to prevent children from such access,
also called Net Nanny.
cyberspace 1. The universe of interconnected computers. It
includes the entire range of information and entertainment
resources available through computer networks, especially
the Internet. A person browsing the World Wide Web is
also navigating through cyberspace. 2. A worldwide net-
work of interconnected autonomous networks, which is util-
ized for commerce, education, research, entertainment, and
the obtaining of or exchange of information on virtually
anything of human interest. Cyberspace currently encom-
passes hundreds of millions of computers and users, and
161 cyclotron
spans nearly 200 countries. Among other services, users can
exchange email, browse the World Wide Web, purchase and
sell goods, and so on. An Internet service provider, for in-
stance, may be used for access. Also called Internet, in-
formation highway (2), information superhighway (2), or
Infobahn (2).
cyberwar Abbreviation of cyber warfare. The use of cyber-
space for information warfare.
cyborg Acronym for cybernetic organism. A human who has
one or more mental and/or physical processes enhanced
and/or controlled by devices which may be mechanical,
electrical, electromechanical, optical, and so on.
cycle I. One complete sequence of changes of a periodically
repeated phenomenon. For instance, an AC cycle. 2. One
complete sequence of operations performed as a unit. For
example, a machine cycle within a computer processor.
3. One complete sequence of events occurring as a unit, such
as sunspot cycles.
cycle count 1. The count a cycle counter indicates at any
given moment. 2. A tally of a given number of cycles.
cycle counter A circuit or device which counts cycles.
cycle index The number of times a computer has carried out a
given cycle.
cycle-index counter 1. A device which counts the number of
times a computer has carried out a given cycle. 2. A vari-
able which indicates the number of times a computer has
carried out a given cycle.
cycle life The number of charges and discharges a storage
battery can sustain while maintaining adequate performance.
cycle reset The resetting a cycle counter to zero, its initial
value, or to a given desired value.
cycle stealing A technique in which a peripheral control unit,
such as a direct memory access device, uses the local bus for
transfers during cycles that the CPU is not using it.
cycle time The time interval that elapses during a cycle.
cycle timer A device, such as a switch, which opens or closes
a circuit according to a cycle or schedule.
cycles per minute The frequency per minute that a periodic
phenomenon has a complete set of values, or cycles. Its ab-
breviation is cpm.
cycles per second The frequency per second that a periodic
phenomenon, such as an electromagnetic wave, has a com-
plete set of values, or cycles. The term currently used for
this concept is hertz. Its abbreviation is cps.
cyclic redundancy check A technique used for error detec-
tion while transmitting digital data. In it, the sending com-
puter performs a complex calculation based on the data, and
attaches the resulting value. The receiving computer per-
forms the same calculation, and the result is compared to the
original value. If the values do not match, an error has oc-
curred. It provides a greater degree of error detection than a
checksum. Its abbreviation is CRC. Also calJed cyclic re-
dundancy code, or cyclical redundancy check.
cyclic redundancy code Same as cyclic redundancy check.
cyclical redundancy check Same as cyclic redundancy
check.
cycling 1. The oscillation of a controlled variable near the
desired value, or between two values. Also called oscilla-
tion (3). 2. To run through one or more cycles.
cyclotron A circular accelerator in which charged particles
are given repeated energy boosts by a constant-frequency
alternating electric field, while a static magnetic field main-
tains the particles in their proper spiraling path. The hollow
metal box within which the particles are accelerated is di-
vided into two, with each of the sections being called a dee.
Once the particles reach a given velocity, they spiral out
onto the desired target.
cyclotron emission 162
cyclotron emission Same as cyclotron radiation.
cyclotron frequency 1. The angular frequency of the orbit of
a charged particle in a cyclotron. 2. The frequency at which
the electric field in a cyclotron is alternated so that the par-
ticles are further accelerated. 3. The angular frequency of
the orbit of a particle orbiting along an axis which is per-
pendicular to a uniform magnetic field. Also called gyrof-
requency.
cyclotron radiation Also called cyclotron emission. 1. The
radiation emitted by particles orbiting in a cyclotron. 2. The
radiation emitted by particles orbiting in a magnetic field.
cylinder 1. A uniform body with a circular section and
straight sides. Such a body may be hollow, partly filled, or
solid. Also, the shape described, and that which resembles
this shape. 2. The set of all tracks that have the same track
number on each disk surface. In a multiplatter hard drive,
there would be two such tracks on each surface, with all
tracks being vertically above or below each other. Since an
access arm remains stationary until all the tracks in a cylin-
der are either read or written, access time can be reduced by
storing related data in cylinders.
Czochralski technique
cylindrical In the form of, or resembling a cylinder (1).
cylindrical antenna An antenna whose radiating elements are
hollow cylinders.
cylindrical capacitor A capacitor in which two concentric
metal cylinders, of equal length, enclose a dielectric. Also
called coaxial capacitor.
cylindrical wave A wave whose equiphase surfaces form a
series of coaxial cylinders.
cylindrical waveguide A waveguide in cylindrical form.
cylindrical winding A coil winding in which one or more
layers are helically wound.
Czochralski method A technique used for cultivating large
single crystals. Using this method, a seed crystal is dipped
into a molten solution of the crystal, and is slowly with-
drawn while being rotated. Used, for instance, to grow
semiconductor crystals such as gallium arsenide. Also
called Czochralski process, Czochralski technique, or
liquid-encapsulated Czochralski.
Czochralski process Same as Czochralski method.
Czochralski technique Same as Czochralski method.